Mitcham Mobile Repair Shop Owner Proposes Boutique Artisanal Deli with Alcohol Sales
The owner of a mobile repair shop in Mitcham has submitted a controversial application to transform his business into what he describes as a "boutique artisanal deli" that would also sell alcohol. This proposal comes after police objected to his initial plan to operate as a standard off-licence, citing concerns about exacerbating street drinking and antisocial behavior in the area.
Police Raise Serious Concerns About Public Nuisance and Crime
Metropolitan Police officers have expressed strong opposition to the application, arguing that allowing alcohol sales at the premises—currently operating as a shop selling stationery, household goods, and mobile repair services—would encourage street drinking in an area already struggling with significant antisocial behavior. The business, located at 256 London Road and named VJ's Off Licence by owner Vijaykumar Patel, sits within the Mitcham Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ).
Under the Licensing Act 2003, CIZs come with a presumption that new or varied licensing applications will be refused if they are considered likely to add to existing public nuisance, crime, or disorder. Police licensing officers have submitted detailed objections, highlighting daily disturbances in central Mitcham and the strain on local resources.
Owner Defends Application as Responsible Business Model
Mr. Patel initially applied for an alcohol licence in January 2026 but changed course a month later, proposing the deli concept instead. He insists this shift is not deceptive but rather a constructive response to police concerns. In his application, he outlined plans to sell alcohol alongside fresh flowers and specialist cheeses, with operating hours from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily.
To address street drinking concerns, Mr. Patel proposed banning the sale of single cans, miniature spirits, and any beer or cider over 7.5% ABV. He argued that "a person seeking a cheap bottle of cider is unlikely to walk into a deli selling artisanal bread and specialist cheese to find it." Mr. Patel, who has worked in Mitcham since 1985, emphasized his intention to operate a well-managed, responsible premises that contributes positively to the area.
Police Express Scepticism Over Sudden Business Model Change
In public correspondences, PC Avril O'Brien expressed scepticism about the sudden shift to a deli model. On February 16, she stated, "My opinion is that only since I have highlighted the licensing policy around the Cumulative Impact Zone exceptions you have now adjusted your business to fit." She later added that she remained "confused" about the true business model.
PC O'Brien also rejected Mr. Patel's proposed restrictions on high-strength beers, arguing that "individuals intent on obtaining alcohol will typically purchase any alcoholic product available." She noted that while the local licensing authority offers a paid pre-application service, police do not participate in it, instead engaging during the statutory 28-day consultation period.
Detailed Police Objections Highlight Ongoing Issues in Mitcham
Sergeant Matt Bower provided detailed objections, noting that "at almost any time of day, if you visit Mitcham, you will see groups sitting around Mitcham Fair Green consuming alcohol." He highlighted Operation Martello, the current antisocial behavior clampdown in Mitcham, which costs £28,000 annually and requires 25 police hours per week to manage issues like public urination, fighting, and littering in the town centre.
Sgt. Bower also raised safeguarding concerns due to the premises' proximity to a local food bank regularly attended by vulnerable community members. He warned that "granting this licence would contribute to further alcohol-related disorder, increased incidents of antisocial behavior, and hinder the progress police have made."
Application Process and Owner's Frustration with Consultation
Mr. Patel expressed disappointment that police submitted an outright objection rather than using the statutory consultation period to discuss potential modifications. He claimed his licensing agent made three documented attempts to consult with police in November 2025, December 2025, and January 2026, all of which went unanswered.
The application will be decided by Merton Council at a virtual Licensing Sub-Committee hearing on March 11, 2026. This case highlights the ongoing tension between business development and community safety in areas designated as Cumulative Impact Zones, where alcohol-related issues are particularly prevalent.
