Met Police warn new wine shop could lead to rise in anti-social behaviour

The Metropolitan Police have objected to plans for a new wine shop in Kingston town centre, citing concerns it could worsen ongoing issues with anti-social behaviour, street drinking, and violence in the area.

Lloyds Local Kingston has applied for a licence to open in a vacant unit on Eden Street, but both the Met Police and Kingston Council’s public health team have raised strong objections.

Police sergeant Jeremy Weston, the Met’s licensing officer, told a council hearing on April 22 that Eden Street is already a known hotspot for crime and disruption. He noted its proximity to Eagle Brewery Wharf, which has been under a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) since 2020 due to persistent problems with alcohol-fuelled disturbances.

Sergeant Weston warned: “Adding another off-licence here would only make things worse, increasing the availability of alcohol in an area already battling crime and anti-social behaviour. If approved, this licence could lead to more street drinking, more disorder, and added pressure on police and council services.”

Residents also voiced their opposition, with Ian Madle—representing those living at the nearby Queens Reach apartments—describing how years of disorder in the area had severely impacted locals. He said large groups of teenagers often gather, drink, take drugs, and play loud music, forcing residents to lose sleep, book hotel rooms to escape, or even move out permanently.

Laura MacLehose, acting director of public health for the council, also submitted a written objection, arguing that granting the licence would likely encourage intoxicated individuals to continue drinking on their way home, further increasing public risk.

Applicant Naresh Das has requested permission to sell alcohol from 9am to 10pm Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. His licensing consultant, Surendra Panchal, argued that the shop would focus on high-end wines and would not target street drinkers or young people. While other alcoholic beverages would be sold, Panchal stressed that the shop would avoid stocking high-strength beers or single cans.

To address concerns, Panchal said the business planned to hire a security guard to be on-site from noon to closing every day and would install enhanced CCTV. He also said they were open to adjusting the proposed opening hours to ease worries.

“This premises has been shut since Covid,” Panchal added. “Reopening it as a premium shop could actually enhance the area and boost its profile.”

The council is expected to announce its decision on the licence in the coming days.