Why it matters: The application would allow the town centre shop to sell alcohol 24 hours a day, seven days a week, representing a significant extension from its current restricted hours. Police say approval would "adversely compromise" licensing objectives, including crime prevention and public safety.
The details: The licence variation application was submitted on 13 August by Marzia Nishat, who was then the company director. However, Companies House records show she resigned on 4 September, with Afghan national Borhanuddin Niazi appointed as the new director on 10 September and gaining significant control of the company.
The shop wants to provide late-night refreshments from 11:00 to 05:00 daily and sell alcohol off the premises 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It also seeks to extend opening hours to round-the-clock operations.
What they're saying: Police have requested the licensing committee reject the application entirely, citing concerns about the shop's proximity to nightclubs and late-night venues. They warn that late-night revellers who have been drinking will "gravitate to these premises as they will be able to purchase further alcohol and hot food," potentially creating conflict and violence.
The bigger picture: Police argue the area is already "a hot spot for crime and disorder, particularly at weekends" and express concern about street drinkers and homeless people being attracted to a venue selling alcohol and hot food late at night.
They also highlight reduced police capacity during the night-time economy hours and warn that customers after midnight "will be coming from bars, clubs and bars in the area and will be under the influence of alcohol and drunk."
What's next: If the committee grants the application despite police objections, officers have proposed strict conditions, including comprehensive CCTV, trained door staff on Friday and Saturday nights, an incident log, Challenge 25 age verification, no under-18s after 10pm, and restrictions on alcohol strength.
Police have also suggested reduced hours as a compromise - 7am to 11pm for alcohol sales instead of 24 hours.
Ipswich Borough Council's Licensing and Regulatory Sub-Committee will determine the application at a hearing scheduled for 10:00 on Tuesday, 30 September.
The bottom line: The council must balance the business's commercial interests against detailed police concerns about public safety, crime and disorder in an area already described as a hotspot for weekend trouble.
