Lancaster petrol station’s off-licence bid raises drink-driving and anti-social behaviour fears

Ascona Retail has applied to Lancaster City Council for a premises licence for the Bowling Green Service Station in Scotforth Road, to sell alcohol to be consumed off the premises.

Lancaster city councillors will consider the application this Thursday at a licensing sub-committee meeting.

Ascona want the premises to sell alcohol from 6am to 11pm, in keeping with general shop opening times.

It says in a report: “The Lancaster business is owned by Ascona Retail Ltd which trades responsibly and sells alcohol at over 50 sites across the UK. Many sites are open and licensed to sell alcohol for 24 hours along with other products.

“This premises is a well-established filling station and forecourt with a convenience store. These have been operated by the applicant for several years without any known complaints, problems or issues.

“The convenience store is a valuable resource for local people. All types of products are sold such as household goods, toiletries, fresh and frozen foods etc. Alcohol is not the intended focus. Alcohol sales will have a limited impact on the area because local people are expected to generally buy alcohol with other products.”

Lancaster City Council has received two objection letters from residents.

One states: ” I live nearby and have serious concerns about the negative impact this proposal would have on road safety and the community.

“The petrol station is close to to a major motorway entrance. A significant number of customers who use this site go directly onto the motorway after refuelling. Allowing alcohol sales at this location poses a substantial risk of encouraging drink-driving or contributing to impaired driving incidents.

“The sale of alcohol in such a setting undermines public safety and contradicts the responsibility that should be upheld by a business operating so close to a major road network.

“In addition, I am worried about the potential disruption this off-licence could bring to the local area. Late night sales of alcohol could lead to increased noise, litter and anti-social behaviour, all of which would negatively affect residents’ quality of life and the character of the neighbourhood.

"Granting an off-licence here would not serve the public interest and would create unnecessary risks for motorists and local residents.”

Another objector has written: “Firstly, the premises adjoining the Bowling Green Service Station is due to become a padel sports facility, which will attract families, young people and children. The sale of alcohol so close to a sporting and recreational facility is inappropriate and poses potential risks to the welfare of young people.

“Secondly, permitting alcohol sales here could lead to an increased shoplifting and underage individuals attempting to solicit alcohol purchases from other customers. This may, in turn, contribute to anti-social behaviour, including groups congregating around the site and the potential for on-site consumption of alcohol.

“Furthermore, the surrounding area already has several licensed premises, including a pub, a Bargain Booze and a Booths supermarket. Given this, I see no justification for an additional alcohol outlet.

“It is also worth noting that, from my personal observations, service station employees frequently work alone. Introducing alcohol sales could place additional pressure on lone workers, increasing safety and security risks.”