Middleton store loses licence

A Middleton general store has lost its licence to sell alcohol following a decision by Rochdale Council.

On Monday (6 October) the Licensing Sub Committee heard complaints about Bowness Grocers on Bowness Road from Police and Trading Standards Officers.

They referred to high levels of nuisance in the area caused by underage drinkers in the local vicinity and nearby park. Mr Siddique, the Designated Premise Supervisor for Bowness Grocers also attended to present his case to the committee.

The council had received complaints from residents living in the vicinity of the shop about alleged sales of alcohol to minors, who often consumed the alcohol in Truffet Park and surrounding areas. Local councillors had also complained about the problems of underage drinking, anti-social behaviour and youth nuisance.

Andy Glover, Chief Trading Standards Officer at Rochdale Council said he was pleased with the committee’s decision to revoke the premise licence: “Trading Standards were inundated with complaints from local residents and councillors. The premises were visited by our officers on a number of occasions, however attempts to get them to tackle the problems and comply with the licensing objectives had failed. I will have no hesitation in pursuing any other off-licence through the licensing route in the future if they fail to comply with the law or fail to abide by the licensing objectives.”