A shop in Felling that was previously caught with counterfeit vodka is again seeking permission to sell alcohol — just weeks after its initial application was rejected.
Gateshead City Council’s licensing committee will meet on Tuesday, May 13, to review the new application from Today’s Local, located in Firth Square.
Owner Seeks Daily Alcohol Sales from 7am to 1am
According to the new application, Mr. Sugunan Suthakaran is requesting permission to sell alcohol from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. every day, including alcohol sales outside the premises.
However, several local authorities, including Northumbria Police, Trading Standards, and the public health team, have raised serious concerns about the proposal.
History of Counterfeit Vodka and Illegal Goods
Last October, Trading Standards officers found 25 bottles of fake vodka in a storeroom at the premises. In addition, they seized 461 illegal e-cigarettes from a nearby flat.
Police officers also discovered 38 bottles of wine without proper tax stamps, further deepening suspicions about the business’s operations.
At the previous licensing hearing, the applicant’s solicitor, Mr. Daze, claimed the alcohol had been left behind by the former owner. He admitted, however, that the items should have been removed before applying for a new licence.
Police Warn of Crime and Disorder Risks
In a written statement, Northumbria Police expressed concerns that granting another licence in the area could worsen problems with antisocial behaviour (ASB) and crime.
“While each application is considered on its own merit, approving this licence would likely undermine the goal of reducing crime and disorder in the area,” the submission said.
Police believe that adding another venue selling alcohol during these hours would increase alcohol-related ASB in a community already dealing with such issues.
Public Health Officers Oppose Application
The Council’s Director of Public Health supported the police’s view. In a written objection, they stated that poor licensing management could lead to greater alcohol harm, especially in areas where residents are already vulnerable.
“We are concerned that this licence could worsen existing health and social problems related to alcohol in the community,” the letter added.
Applicant Promises Strong Safeguards
Despite the objections, the application includes new safeguards. These include:
A robust CCTV system
A strict Challenge 25 ID check policy
A refusal log to track denied sales
Regular staff training on responsible alcohol service
The applicant insists these measures will prevent underage sales and drug misuse, and ensure responsible alcohol distribution.
Council to Decide on May 13
Gateshead City Council’s licensing committee will now review all evidence and make a decision on the application on Tuesday, May 13.
The outcome could set a precedent for how repeat licence applicants with a history of illegal stock are treated in Gateshead.
Related Topics
