Caversham Shop Licence Sparks Community Concerns

A new shop, Sip n Vape, could open at 53 Donkin Hill in Caversham if councillors grant a premises licence next week.

The business, in a former kitchen showroom next to a hair salon, has applied to sell alcohol for customers to take away from 7am until 11pm seven days a week. Paramjeet Singh Shdana has asked Reading Borough Council for permission to sell alcohol off the premises and to open the shop to the public during the same hours.

But Neighbour Louise black said: “Similar establishments in the immediate area end at 10pm.

“In granting a licence beyond others closing, there is a significant risk the retailer will attract trade from outside the community.

“There is also an increased risk of antisocial behaviour which would impact
residents enjoyment and feeling of safety in their homes.”

Another neighbour, Elena Shishkanova said: “Local residents still do not have clear information regarding the exact nature of this business, whether it will operate primarily as a convenience store, vape shop, cafe, takeaway, or off-licence.

“This lack of clarity creates additional concern regarding the long-term impact on the area and the possibility of increased late-evening activity.”

There is currently no licence in force at the address, which sits in an overwhelmingly residential part of Caversham.

Thames Valley Police and Reading Borough Council's own licensing officers have discussed the application with the applicant and agreed a set of conditions that would form part of the licence if granted. The application is due to be considered by a Reading Licensing sub-committee at the civic offices on Wednesday, July 8 at 9.30am.

Under the Licensing Act, councillors can grant the licence as applied for, grant it with modifications, or refuse it to prevent crime and disorder, protect public safety, prevent public nuisance or safeguard children from harm. If councillors refuse the application, Sip n Vape would not be permitted to sell alcohol from the site.

Ted O'Neill, Local Democracy Reporter