CONCERNS of anti-social behaviour on the Oxford Road have been raised by police after a garage applied for a 24-hour licence to sell alcohol.

The Shell garage is applying to Reading Borough Council's (RBC) Licensing Committee for the rights to sell booze, but police say the crime hotspot could be exacerbated.

Thames Valley Police (TVP) reports highlight a 'significant' amount of crime and disorder in the area, with more than 1,400 incidents reported in the last two years.

One report from the council’s public health team said: “There is a group of hardened street drinkers known to the Oxford Road area.

“Evidence suggests currently their routine is to use existing off-licence premises during the day, but they do disperse from the area at around 11pm, when other premises close.

“The addition of a 24-hour licence, it is believed, would risk that this dispersing would either take place much later, or possibly not at all, which would lead to a detrimental impact on the area.”

Licensing officer for TVP Mike King believes the high level of crime in the area that already exist should not ignored with regards to the application.

Peter Narancic, an officer for RBC, explains: "I am very concerned if this licence is granted in full to the potential impact on the promotion of the licensing objectives.

"This may include the potential impact on crime and disorder and public nuisance on a road that a large concentration of licensed premises may have.

"Concerns do exist about the large number of licensed premises, particularly on Oxford Road. The council recognises the concerns of residents in areas with high proportions of licensed premises and will ensure these premises are properly controlled.

"Numerous street drinkers congregate opposite the service station and the sale of alcohol should cease at 11pm.

"This will ensure the street drinkers do not stay around for a longer period of time."

RBC's licensing sub-committee will consider the proposals tomorrow evening.