Orpington Residents Voice Fears Over Proposed Off-Licence Opening
Residents in Orpington, South London, are expressing significant concerns about a proposed new convenience store that would sell alcohol, warning it could attract "unwanted individuals" and lead to increased anti-social behaviour in their neighbourhood. The application for Cleave Express, set to open at 4 Cleave Avenue, has sparked 22 objections from locals who fear the shop will disrupt the peace and safety of their community.
Licensing Application Under Scrutiny
Bromley Council's Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to review the premises licence application on March 23, 2026. The applicant, Yathurshan Srithevar, plans to operate the grocery store daily from 6am to 11pm, offering alcohol among other products. Despite no objections from responsible authorities such as the police or council teams, residents remain vehemently opposed, citing potential risks to children and increased traffic congestion.
Resident Objections Highlight Safety and Morality Concerns
One resident living directly above the proposed shop location stated that the off-licence would bring "unwanted individuals to our peaceful homes to shoplift, cause damage, and disrupt the peace." They added that these individuals "hold no morals or self-worth" and could pose "immense and unnecessary intimidation and danger" to residents, particularly children who walk to and from school unaccompanied. Another objector called the licence "outrageous" and "a disgrace," linking it to existing alcohol-related troubles in the high street.
Traffic and Parking Issues Exacerbated
Beyond safety fears, residents highlighted severe parking problems on Cleave Avenue, describing the estate as at "breaking point" due to non-resident vehicles from nearby workplaces like the Orpington Bus Garage. They argued that additional customer traffic from the off-licence would worsen congestion, restrict parking availability, and increase noise levels late at night. Concerns were also raised about the shop's fit within the residential area, which currently only hosts a physiotherapy clinic.
Authorities Set Conditions Amidst Public Outcry
While police have not objected to the application, they have imposed conditions such as CCTV installation, which the applicant has agreed to. However, residents remain unconvinced, with one noting that alcohol is already available at a nearby Texaco petrol station, questioning the necessity and genuineness of the new business. The debate continues as the council prepares to make a decision, balancing commercial interests with community welfare.
