A FRUIT and veg shop is hoping to transform into a delicatessen and convenience store but its bid to sell booze sparked complaints from residents.

Southend Council held a licensing hearing yesterday after four complaints were received about Broadway Fruits, in Thorpe Bay, over its proposals to sell alcohol from 7am until 11pm.

Complaints were received about noise and anti-social behaviour, while a ward councillor also objected before withdrawing the complaint following an agreement with the applicant.

Speaking on behalf of the applicant at the hearing Frank Fender, licensing consultant, said: “Initially, the application sought permission to sell alcohol from 6am to 11pm but following consultation with a local ward councillor the times were amended to 7am and 11pm.

“Within the application were series of robust conditions all designed to promote the licensing objectives.

“The applicant has 20 years of retail experience. The premises themselves are a small fruit and veg shop. If you are minded to grant the licence the premises will be closed for a short time when a refurbishment will be carried out and it will be extended into the back.”

During a consultation, the store assured residents and the council the purchase and delivery of alcohol would only be to those aged over 18.

Mr Fender added: “As well as maintaining a fruit and veg aspect of the shop there will be more emphasis on delicatessen and convenience foods. Alcohol is there to compliment the new offering. It will not become an off licence. It’s mainly a convenience store.”

Mr Fender criticised the objectors for not attending the hearing and said fears of noise and antisocial behaviour were unfounded.

He said: “Its disappointing that they are not here today.

“There is no evidence to support those claims. If there were serious concerns about noise issues as a result of this shop being granted a licence or if there were serious concerns about antisocial behaviour then I believe the police or the environmental health officer would have made their own comments and would be present here today.”

The applicant will be informed of the licensing sub-committee decision within five days.