Neighbours' fears as Tesco plans to open by Halloween

Published 2 Oct 2008 07:00 Comments 1 Comment

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READING'S ninth Tesco will open just before Halloween with permission to sell alcohol - despite fears over drinking problems, noise and congestion.

The Express convenience store below 100 student flats in Crown House - former home of the Fun 'n' Frolic novelty shop - will sell alcohol from 8am-11pm daily. Bosses had wanted to start selling drink from 6am. Katesgrove Lib Dem councillor Gareth Epps told the council's licensing committee on Tuesday: "There are considerable and well-known problems in the area with street drinking.

"There are a number of institutions in the area for vulnerable people, accommodating people with alcohol issues. It is also close to a number of schools. I'm not sure that the conditions will go far enough to deal with the significant sensitivities in the area.

"I think it's just another example of how Tesco is able to ride roughshod over the authorities."

Solicitor Jeremy Bark, for Tesco, said the company is a "responsible retailer" offering "value for money, not cheap alcohol". He defended shoppers' right to buy alcohol early in the morning and said: "If they wish to, and are a lawful citizen, why shouldn't they be able to, as they are in other areas?"

Mr Bark said drunks will not be served when Tesco opens on October 30 and he added: "We don't allow any vagrants in the store, we don't encourage sales to them."

Dr Tim Chatterton, an air pollution research consultant who lives in Upper Crown Street, speaking for neighbours of the new store, told councillors it will bring "fundamental change" to the neighbourhood because of the numbers of car users who will shop there.

Parking is banned outside the store, at the Crown Street-London Street junction, and Dr Chatterton warned Newark Street and Upper Crown Street will be hit by illegal parkers and pollution.

What do you think about the decision? Do you think it will cause problems? Or will you welcome the new shop? Have your say below.

This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 02 Oct 08

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