An innovative new shop is expected to open in Caversham if councillors grant it a premises licence next week.
Sip n Vape, due to open in a former kitchen showroom next door to a hair salon at 53 Donkin Hill, has applied to sell alcohol for customers to take away from 7am until 11pm seven days a week.
Paramjeet Singh Shdana has asked Reading Borough Council for permission to sell alcohol off the premises and to open the shop to the public during the same hours.
But Neighbour Louise black said: “Similar establishments in the immediate area end at 10pm.
“In granting a licence beyond others closing, there is a significant risk the retailer will attract trade from outside the community.
“There is also an increased risk of antisocial behaviour which would impact
residents enjoyment and feeling of safety in their homes.”
Another neighbour, Elena Shishkanova said: “Local residents still do not have clear information regarding the exact nature of this business, whether it will operate primarily as a convenience store, vape shop, cafe, takeaway, or off-licence.
“This lack of clarity creates additional concern regarding the long-term impact on the area and the possibility of increased late-evening activity.”
There is currently no licence in force at the address, which sits in an overwhelmingly residential part of Caversham.
The application has been submitted on behalf of Sip n Vape and is due to be considered by a Reading Licensing sub‑committee hearing at the civic offices on Wednesday, July 8 at 9.30am.
Under the Licensing Act, councillors can grant the licence as applied for, grant it with modifications, or refuse it if they believe that is necessary to prevent crime and disorder, protecting public safety, preventing public nuisance or safeguarding children from harm.
Thames Valley Police and Reading Borough Council’s own licensing officers have held discussions with the applicant and agreed a set of conditions which would form part of the licence if it is granted.
During the statutory 28‑day consultation period, which ran from May 18 to June 15, the council received objections from two nearby residents, Louise Black and Elena Shishkanova. Their written representations will be considered by councillors at the hearing alongside the application and the agreed conditions.
If councillors refuse the application, Sip n Vape would not be permitted to sell alcohol from the site.
