THURROCK Council's licensing committee has given the go ahead for a West Thurrock food store to sell alcohol despite a complaint from a local business owner.

Convey Enterprises Limited has applied for a new premises licence for Grays Ethnic Foods, located at Unit 4, Manor Road. The licence would permit the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises only.

The application, submitted on 22 October, attracted one formal objection during the consultation period. The nearby business owner raised concerns under the Licensing Act 2003, citing public nuisance, safety risks, and potential harm to the local economy.

In their representation, the objector wrote: "The proposed licensed premises will likely attract additional noise, litter, and congestion near my shop. Increased vehicle movements and gatherings outside could disrupt the trading environment and make the area less appealing to customers, especially during peak hours."

However, at a licensing committee hearing on Thursday, a representative of the owner said they believed the representation had been made over fears of competition. The committee heard no responsible authorities had made objections and it was "a business that wants to operate responsibly".

While Trading Standards did not object to the alcohol licence, they reported a recent compliance failure at the store. During a test purchase, an 18-year-old volunteer was able to buy fireworks without being asked for ID under the Challenge 25 policy. Officers visited the premises immediately afterward and advised the retailer, who appeared unaware of the policy.

"Hopefully they'll be more vigilant in future," Trading Standards said.

The committee granted the licence subject to conditions, including providing proof of training before selling alcohol.

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