Residents oppose alcohol licence for Willington shop

Mr Ravichandran Sivaguru has applied for a licence to open and sell alcohol between 7am and 11pm from Your Local Food and Wine at High Street, Willington. 

As part of the application, Mr Sivaguru said all staff would receive full training and a Challenge 25 scheme will be in operation. 

If approved, CCTV would be installed to film the interior and exterior of the store. 

But objectors have warned that another store in the area is not needed. 

Mr Ram Babu Nagubadi, a nearby postmaster, said the store would impact his and other local businesses. 

“The introduction of another licensed premises so close to my own will significantly affect my livelihood. As a long-standing business, I rely on alcohol sales as a key part of my trade, and this could result in a substantial loss of income,” he said. 

As a long-standing member of the village, he told the council he is “committed to maintaining responsible retailing standards and supporting the local area.”

Mr Nagubadi added that it would be unfair if the new store were granted a licence from 7am, since he cannot sell it until 8am.  

He said: “There are already seven provisions for alcohol sales within the immediate area. Granting another licence does not appear to serve a clear need within the community.”

Members of Greater Willington Parish Council warned that the new store could have a negative impact on the area. 

The application will be considered by Durham County Council’s licensing committee on Friday, May 29. 

Mr Sivaguru will appear at the hearing next week to respond to the concerns.