Residents fear alcohol sales from a new Asda store in Stoke-on-Trent could fuel more crime in their 'frightening' neighbourhood.

A new Asda Express shop is currently under construction at the corner of Stoke Road and Station Road in Shelton, on the former site of CMC Motorcycles.

The retailer has applied for a premises licence which would allow the store to sell alcohol between 6am and midnight, seven days a week. The store would be open 24 hours a day. Two residents have objected to the application, saying that increasing the supply of alcohol in Shelton could worsen existing problems with violent crime and anti-social behaviour.

They say Shelton is already a 'frightening' place to be, as one of Stoke-on-Trent's 'most deprived and perilous areas'. In its application, Asda lists a number of measures it will be taking to prevent crime and disorder, such as the installation of CCTV cameras.

The licensing sub-committee at Stoke-on-Trent City Council will decide whether to grant the premises licence when it meets on Monday, June 3.

The site was previously home to CMC Motorcycles (Google).

Sarmad Hameed, one of the objectors, says that his family feel unsafe due to the presence of violent, drunk people in the area. In his letter of objection, he states: "I have only lived in the area for two years and it's a frightening place to be. This is my personal experience but I ave witnessed intoxicated people behaving violently.

"People walk around during the day with alcohol cans and bottles in their hands. My wife and children feel frightened and unsafe."

In his objection, Shashidher Gopala says that Shelton is already one of the most crime-ridden areas of Stoke-on-Trent, with 166 reported crimes in March. He states: "Stoke-on-Trent is already one of the most dangerous cities in Staffordshire, and Shelton stands out as one of its most deprived and perilous areas. Recent incidents, such as the stabbing outside a barber shop three weeks ago, and the attack with a house brick on a lady in Hanley four weeks ago, underscore the urgent need for action.

"Furthermore, the area is predominately inhabited by the Muslim community, which is deeply concerned about the escalating issue of alcohol consumption among youngsters. Many instances of violence linked to alcohol abuse in our community go unreported, and it is imperative that we provide support to those affected.

"Making alcohol cheap and easily accessible will only serve to exacerbate the dangers and make the area less desirable for local residents."

In its application, Asda says that all staff will be trained in the premises licence holder's procedures, and all checkout operators will receive extra training in the sale of alcohol. The store will use the Challenge 25 proof of age scheme, with a till prompt system for alcohol products.

And a CCTV system will be installed with cameras covering internal areas and the external area in front of the store. Asda has been approached for a comment.

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READ MORE: Fire investigation expected to take place at Stoke-on-Trent shop today

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