Residents oppose plan to turn former pub into off-licence

The Byard's Leap pub has been closed since 2009

Dozens of people have signed a petition objecting to an application to reopen an abandoned Sheffield pub as a grocery store and off-licence.

The petition cites concerns about a possible increase in crime and anti-social behaviour.

The application for the former Byard’s Leap pub on Daresbury Drive, Arbourthorne, has been made by E & A Premier and the applicant is listed on documents as Muhammad Emad Aslam.

The application says measures will be in place to prevent alcohol sales to underage or drunk customers and says a log of crimes and complaints will be kept.

'Public safety concerns'

The Byard's Leap was built as an estate pub and had a reputation for trouble at one time.

It closed in 2009, according to the CAMRA beer enthusiasts’ website, and has since been included in the Facebook community group Lost Pubs of Sheffield.

If the licence is granted, alcohol will be sold in the shop until 22:30, six nights a week and until 21:30 on Sundays.

A petition opposing the plan, signed by more than 80 people, has been submitted to Sheffield City Council.

It said the neighbouring community of Manor Top “already faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of crime rates, anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related incidents".

The presence of multiple off-licences in the area had contributed to the problems, leading to concerns about public safety, the wellbeing of residents and the quality of life in the community, it added.

The petition opposing the plan for the former pub says the area is already affected by anti-social behaviour

“Rather than benefiting the community, another off-licence could drive away potential investment in more positive businesses and amenities, further damaging the local economy and making the area less attractive for families and businesses,” the petition says.

According to the application, the licence holder would ensure strict implementation of a Challenge 25 policy to prevent alcohol being sold to those under age.

It said CCTV would be used in the store and would be available to the council and the police if necessary and an incident log would record "all crimes reported, and complaints received, and refusal of the sale of alcohol".

The application will be considered by Sheffield City Council’s licensing sub-committee on 4 November.