Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Noise fears over takeaway plan
A kebab shop owner has applied to run a new premises in Wincheap until 3.30am six nights a week – sparking fears it will attract drunken troublemakers.
Police and residents have raised concerns the new business in the former Lotus House takeaway could lead to late-night problems for neighbours.
But Numan Sherifali, who owns Munchies in St Peters Street and Cafe Solo in Wincheap, says he will take steps to prevent any public nuisance and noise disturbance.
In his application for a premises licence, he plans to open until 3.30am Monday to Saturday and until 2.30am on Sunday.
Chief Superintendent Andrea Bishop says police do not object to the licence being granted, but are “very concerned” about the proposed operating hours in such a residential area.
“The premises is very close to the King’s Head and to Club Chemistry. It is also in an area which includes student accommodation,” she said.
“The availability of hot food until 2am/3am may well draw customers towards this premises.
“Some people whilst drunk will make more noise than usual and it is almost inevitable this will disturb the residents. There will be noise from customers standing outside the premises and noise as they enter and leave.
“There is also a risk of drunken confrontation.”
The police licensing officer’s request to Mr Sherifali for the shop to close at 1am was snubbed, with police subsequently turning down a counteroffer of a 2am closing.
Cllr Nick Eden-green, who represents Wincheap, appealed to the licensing officer for an earlier closing time after being approached by residents.
“The potential public nuisance is from those visiting the premises on foot in a possibly inebriated state and from those driving to the premises to collect food with revving engines and slamming doors,” he said.
David Hall, of Furley Page Partnership, commenting on behalf of Mr Sherifali, says the kebab shop owner has a wealth of experience in the takeaway food business and is able to provide “well-run and well-managed premises”.
“He is acutely aware takeaway premises can attract customers who have been drinking elsewhere, sometimes excessively, and there is therefore the risk of crime and disorder,” he said.
“Staff training will include procedures to defuse potential aggressive behaviour among customers.
“CCTV will also be used as a tool to control bad behaviour and noise disturbance.”
An initial hearing was adjourned to February 21.
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