Tesco plan for new off-licence in Limerick challenged amid anti-social behaviour fear

THERE’S been a plot twist in Tesco Ireland’s bid to increase the range of alcohol it serves at a city store.

The supermarket giant has hit a 'grave' problem after an objection was tabled over its plans to add an off-licence at its outlet in Moyross.

The objector, based at North Circular Road, has written to council to state the supermarket borders St Bridget’s paupers’ graveyard.

“There is no provision for protection of the site, nor its flora and fauna in this application,” he added.

The application from Tesco Ireland does not involve any further construction, rather a sub-division of the existing store.
Currently, the firm only sells wine at its outlet in Watch House Cross.

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But it wants to expand this offering to include beers and spirits.

According to regulations, shops are allowed to sell wine if it is “subsidiary to the main retail use of the store”.

Permission is required to sell alcoholic beverages other than wine, as is the case here.

The application to open an off-licence comes despite the fact there is a Carry Out liquor store in the unit adjoining Tesco’s Moyross branch.

The objection has also highlighted the existence of this facility, which opened before the ribbon was cut on Tesco’s newest city branch.

“There is no need for a second full off-licence in the same building or in the neighbourhood centre,” they stated.

“This application for a second full off-licence will exasperate the anti-social behaviour in the locality and planning should not be granted,” they said.

A second party also wrote to council in relation to the application, making what they described as an “observation”.

They also reflected concerns around anti-social behaviour near off-licences, claiming people are deterred from visiting the area.

Planners are due to decide on the application by May 19.