I WAS rather taken aback to read in the Cambs Times, that the licensing committee have agreed to the Co-op in Badgeney Road being allowed to sell alcohol until 10pm on Saturdays ‘in order to compete with Tesco Express’.

I WAS rather taken aback to read in the Cambs Times, that the licensing committee have agreed to the Co-op in Badgeney Road being allowed to sell alcohol until 10pm on Saturdays ‘in order to compete with Tesco Express’.

Do I take it this will be the yardstick for other off licenses in the town in future? To compare an off license in an essentially residential area with one in the heart of the Town’s shopping area seems quite ludicrous to me particularly as their was evidence from residents of anti social behaviour even with the existing licensing hours at Badgeney Road.

The government has already pinpointed off license sales as a primary cause of underage drinking and anti social behaviour. The Fenland Licensing Committee decision seems to fly in the face of this concern.

Presumably Somerfield (now owned by the Co-op) on the High Street will be the next applicant for extended hours followed by the off licenses in other parts of the town using Badgeney Road as a precedent.

As you know, there was considerable concern expressed at the recent March Neighbourhood Forum about alcohol fuelled anti social behaviour and it was identified as one of the police priorities.

I would be interested in your comments as Chairman of the Licensing Committee.

REG KEMP

Via e-mail

PS - Woke up Sunday morning to find that yobbos had thrown a newly planted pot from our front garden against the wall smashing it to bits. This is why residents don’t want extended hours for alcohol sales. We’re not just old killjoys!