A newsagent hopes to secure a licence to sell alcohol despite concerns that it could lead to anti-social behaviour.

Stanmore Place Food Market, in Howard Road, applied for the licence from Harrow Council, which, if approved, would run from 7am to 10pm Sunday to Thursday and 7am to 11pm on Friday and Saturday.

It came despite 35 objections from people living nearby, who suggested granting permission could lead to issues such as littering and increased noise.

They also noted the proximity of the shop to a nursery which, they argued, would go against one of the council’s licensing objectives to protect children from harm.

Niall McCann, representing the applicant Shilan Ganatra, told a Harrow Council licensing panel on Wednesday (April 28) the introduction of alcohol sales, which would account for around ten per cent of the overall profits, “could be the difference between a viable business and one that has to shut down”.

He added there were not any objections from responsible authorities, including licensing officers from Harrow Council and the Metropolitan Police, while, in general, the shop has received “excellent feedback” from residents.

On anti-social behaviour, Mr McCann noted the estate management has regular security and litter picking measures in place, while the shop will make use of 12 CCTV cameras.

In his application, Mr Ganatra said “careful consideration” had been taken to ensure he fulfilled the licensing objectives, and he was “confident” this could be achieved.

This included commitments to ensuring anyone loitering or making noise near the shop is moved on, extensive training to avoid serving drunk customers, and vigilant ID checks to prevent underage sales.

Mr McCann added approval would address the “lack of shopping options” in the area and would give the owners the opportunity to “show they can be a good neighbour”.

Harrow Council will make its decision within five working days of the hearing, with all parties who made representations entitled to an appeal.