Permission for an off-licence in Westgate bar

A 24-hour convenience store with permission to sell alcohol until midnight is set to open at Cave Bar, on Westgate, under a variation of the premises licence.

Wakefield Council granted permission despite police concerns over street drinking and people congregating outside while under the influence.

A report to the council’s licensing committee said it would operate as a convenience store up until 10pm, when sales will be made through a hatch monitored by CCTV.

Between 10pm and midnight, sales of drinks over more than five per cent will not be allowed. All alcohol containers will be marked with a code which can be traced back to the premises.

The report said: “The variation relates to the ground floor only. The first floor will remain as a bar.”

The committee said nearby shops already had similar permissions. The ground floor was previously allowed to sell alcohol until 2.30am Monday-Saturday and until 1.30am on Sundays.

It said: “In the circumstances, we have therefore decided that this particular application, whilst on the face of it may appear likely to impact upon the Westgate area, in fact is more likely to reduce any impact with the reduction in its licensing hours and increased requirements upon its licence and the sale of alcohol.”