Tesco triumphs in booze battle

Tesco achieved victory last week when a court ruling overturned a proposed ban on the sale of alcohol in its new Kemp Town store.

The supermarket chain’s Tesco Express outlet in St James’ Street, due to be opened in June, had previously had its application for an alcohol licence turned down by Brighton and Hove City Council. This was due to fears that the introduction of another supplier of cheap drink to the vicinity would exacerbate the areas already serious problems with unruly behaviour.

The area, notorious for high levels of crime and drunken disorder, is a designated cumulative impact zone. This means that all applications for the right to sell alcohol in the locality are treated with extreme caution.

However, following an appeal, Tesco secured the right to a licence under twelve strict conditions. These include the stipulation that alcohol may only be sold between midday and 10pm, and that a security guard must be present at all times during this period. Furthermore, no beer or cider with over 5.5% alcohol content is to be offered for sale.

Locals and councillors are said to be disappointed with the decision, but vow to ensure that all conditions are adhered to.