A new convenience store and petrol station in the rural Somerset town of Wiveliscombe has been granted a 24-hour licence to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises, sparking debate among local residents and officials.
Sterling Petroleum Ltd, which operates 40 similar sites across the UK, opened its store at the former Jones Garage site on 17 West Street, near Taunton. The company applied for a licence permitting round-the-clock alcohol sales, citing strong management and community respect, but faced objections from town councillors concerned about potential late-night disturbances.
During a virtual hearing, Somerset Council’s licensing sub-committee west voted to approve the extended licence despite vocal opposition. Naga Rajesh, an independent licensing consultant affiliated with Sterling Petroleum, assured the committee that the company follows stringent policies, including restrictions on selling super-strength alcohol and large bulk purchases. “We prioritize local residents and have a proven track record of no issues in similar small villages for the past eight years,” he said.
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However, some town authorities remained unconvinced. Peter Berman of Wiveliscombe Town Council criticized Sterling Petroleum for commencing construction without apparent approval in the town’s conservation area, describing the move as unprofessional. He questioned the necessity of a 24-hour alcohol sales licence in a small town of 3,000 residents where streets are empty by midnight. “If security is the concern, staying open does not require selling alcohol,” he argued.
The local police service, Avon & Somerset Constabulary, agreed on several conditions with the applicant before the hearing. These include mandatory CCTV installation and a ban on selling beer or cider over 6.5% ABV. Additionally, from 10pm to 6am, when only one staff member is present, all food and drink sales will be via a night hatch to enhance safety and limit access.
Further controversy arose when Councillor Dave Mansell revealed the site is under investigation by the council’s planning enforcement team due to ongoing building works without confirmed permissions. Despite this, Sterling Petroleum representatives stated they were complying with planning regulations and had no intentions of violations.
Councillor Mansell, who represents the Upper Tone division including Wiveliscombe, expressed concerns about the impact on residents’ quality of life. Living nearby, he noted, “There’s little demand for alcohol sales overnight here. Most residents are asleep by 10 or 11pm. This licence risks disturbing the quiet night environment, which is not appropriate for our small rural community.”
Although he supported granting an alcohol licence in principle, Councillor Mansell opposed late-night trading hours. Ultimately, the licensing sub-committee voted to grant the full 24-hour alcohol sales licence, concluding the debate amid community dissatisfaction.