An expanding high street store’s bid for a “24/7” alcohol licence has proven to be controversial. Home Bargains in currently in the process of expanding into the former Morrisons on Bury Road in Breightmet and is set to reopen in the autumn. But a recent application to Bolton Council for a premises licence that will give it the right to sell alcohol in theory at any time of the day has already provoked opposition.
Cllr Sean Fielding, of Breightmet, said: “I’ve objected to Home Bargains’ application for a 24/7 licence. “The store as it previously was only had one until eight and that’s enough. “Home Bargains’ position is contradictory.
The application was made to Bolton Council (Image: Newsquest) “They swear blind they have no intention of opening beyond eight but in the next breath they say they need 24/7 licensing to ‘future proof’ the store.” He added: “I’ll withdraw my objection if they amend the application to match the original arrangements and if, in future, they need longer then, we can consider it then. “We can’t let it become a 24 hour off licence by the back door.
” The space next to Home Bargains has been empty since Morrisons closed down last September, with the retailer announcing plans to move into it soon after. Works are now well underway to expand the store ahead of a proposed opening day on November 24 this year. The licencing application the company has put before the council will, if approved, give the newly expanded st.