Caversham's Sip and Vape Business Gets Licence

Mystery over the nature of an upcoming business called 'Sip and Vape' in Caversham has been solved after the owner applied to sell alcohol from the former Dream Doors on Donkin Hill.

Paramjeet Singh Shdana asked to sell alcohol from 7am to 11pm every day, which prompted confusion over whether the place would be a convenience store or a café/bar.

Two neighbours objected. Elena Shishkanova said: "Local residents 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."

She added: "This lack of clarity creates additional concern regarding the long-term impact on the area and the possibility of increased late-evening activity."

Neighbour Louise Black warned: "The site is positioned in a quiet residential area occupied by families."

"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."

The objections led to a Reading Borough Council licensing sub-committee meeting. Councillor Paul Woodward questioned whether it might operate like Mediterranean-style stores with seating for drinking and smoking.

Surendra Panchal, representing Mr Singh Shdana, made it clear the business will be an off-licence selling convenience products, groceries, alcohol and legal reusable vape products. He said: "This isn't an on-licence, it's an off-licence."

Cllr Woodward said: "It's a shame we don't have objectors in person; we have to speak for them." He added: "I think the objectors got the wrong end of the stick like I did. Can you answer the concerns about cans and bottles being strewn about?"

Mr Panchal said staff would be rigorously trained to deal with anti-social behaviour. Asked how many people would work there, he replied: "This will be a family-run business by Mr Singh Shdana and his son, with two employed staff, so in total there will be four people working there."

He also said applying to sell alcohol until 11pm simply gives flexibility to trade at that time if needed. The local Co-op stores in Henley Road and Star Road both close at 10pm.

With it confirmed the site would operate as a convenience store, the committee approved the application. Mr Singh Shdana agreed to change the trading name to avoid confusion, and a condition was added that no drinking on site would be allowed.

The licence was granted by Cllrs Woodward, Mohammed Ayub and David Clarke on Wednesday, July 8.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter