Liquor application widely opposed: Campbell

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 22nd Aug 2005

Alliance Councillor, Tom Campbell, has expressed concerns about proposals by Winemark to site an off license in Mayfield Village in Glengormley.

An application has been made by the company to the County Court in September, for the grant of retail drinks license for the area. The premises in question at Unit 4a Mayfield Garden Village Glengormley are owned by Frazer Houses (NI) Ltd. The application will be heard at the Recorders Court in Belfast on the 5th September.

Councillor Campbell said that there was widespread opposition from local residents to such a premises in the area, and that the granting of the application would have a detrimental impact on the area.

Councillor Campbell said, "The concern is that an off license will be a focus for anti social activity, and that alcohol will aggravate local problems, such as vandalism and other drink related crime.

"I am totally against this application being granted. This is a residential area, and people want to live in peace and quiet.

"This is a completely unsuitable proposal, and I would urge even at this late stage that those involved reconsider. An off license will only add to existing problems, and would not be a welcome addition.

"What would be welcome is a grocery or convenience store. No such facilities currently exist and would be generally welcomed, but not this."

ENDS