An Investigation into the environmental impact of off-licensed premises on residential neighbourhoods

Abstract

In recent times there has been a great deal of concern about levels of anti-social behaviour across the UK. Several reports have investigated the role of alcohol as a potentially important contributor to this problem. Most research has concentrated on public houses and nightclubs. This is in contrast to the view that the off-trade sector is indicated as the source of the current rise in alcohol consumption across the UK over the past 20 years. This research focusing on licensed convenience stores (grocers / newsagents) operating in residential areas and these often provide a broad range of services for the wider community, not just drinkers or the over-18s. The impact of such premises on residents is likely to be continuous and long-lasting, affecting the whole community.