The Metropolitan Police has opposed the opening of a new off-licence in a North London neighborhood due to concerns about potential increases in violence and sexual offenses linked to excessive alcohol consumption. The proposed convenience store, Craven Park Local, located on Craven Park Road in Harlesden, wants to sell alcohol from 7am until 11pm, seven days a week. This area falls within Harlesden’s Cumulative Impact Zones (CIZ), designated by Brent Council to address crime, street drinking, and antisocial behavior in the area.
Harlesden has been a hotspot for street drinking, with incidents on Craven Park Road often associated with drug misuse and violent crime. In the period between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, there were 321 reports to the police, including cases of anti-social behavior, public order breaches, and violence. Recent data from the Met Police shows that 216 crimes were reported between April 2024 and June 2024, with a majority occurring on Craven Park Road.
PC Phil Graves, in a written submission opposing the new off-licence, highlighted the connection between alcohol consumption and crimes such as violence, sexual offenses, and public order issues in the area. He argued that adding another off-licence would only contribute to antisocial behavior, street crime, and public nuisance. Currently, there are already 12 shops within a five-minute walk selling alcohol, which council officers believe will not benefit the community.
Residents have also expressed concerns about the impact of alcohol-related crime in the area and have received complaints from neighbors, councillors, and the police. One resident noted that previous opposition to a similar off-licence on Craven Park Road in 2023 did not improve the street drinking issues, questioning the need for further availability of alcohol.
In response to these concerns, the applicant has proposed measures to address the issues, including marking all alcohol sold for identification, regular inspections for litter in the vicinity, and enforcing bans on individuals causing antisocial behavior. The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee of the council will review the applications later this month to decide on granting the license.
Overall, the opposition from the police and residents reflects the community’s concerns about the potential impact of a new off-licence on crime and antisocial behavior in the area. The decision by the council on whether to approve the license will be crucial in addressing these issues and ensuring the safety and well-being of the neighborhood.
