A local store in Willenhall can now sell alcohol after overcoming a single objection
Willenhall: A convenience store in Willenhall just got the green light to sell alcohol. They can now serve drinks from 11 am to 11 pm every day. The owner mentioned that business was tough without the license, as many customers would leave when they found out they couldn’t buy any booze.
Even though the store’s director, Samira Rukmal Kahandagamage, was late to the hearing on January 7, she managed to convince the Walsall Council’s licensing committee. She promised to follow all the rules and even said she’d hire door staff during busy times.
West Midlands Police worked with her on some conditions. For instance, the store can’t sell beers or ciders over 6.5 percent, except for craft beers. They also can’t sell single cans or bottles and must limit alcohol displays to 25 percent of the store.
There was one objection from a local resident who raised concerns about street drinking on Stafford Street. They mentioned that it leads to antisocial behavior and makes visitors feel uncomfortable. The objector also noted that kids as young as 13 have been spotted drinking on the streets.
