Drinks licence poser for takeaway

12:34pm Thursday 4th January 2007

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A takeaway owner from Leyland has turned down the chance to open his shop later after a range of conditions meant he would not be able to serve fizzy drinks and food to under-18s after 9pm.

The owner of Montanas takeaway in Fox Lane, Leyland, asked South Ribble Borough Council for permission to stay open from 4pm until 1am under new licensing laws. His present closing time is 11pm.

However, a strict range of conditions imposed by the council meant shop owner, Zuhoor Mujahid, would have to ask for proof of age for youths after 9pm.

Mr Mujahid, 29, decided this was not practical do this and intends to keep to his present opening times, and understands he is free to serve food and soft drinks to under-18s under his previous licence.

The application for extended opening was only granted until 11.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays after police, councillors registered fears that longer hours could lead to an increase in noise and juvenile nuisance.

Mr Mujahid said: "I have made big improvements over the last year and the behaviour around my business is much better.

"I have spent £1,500 on new CCTV camera equipment and hope that will improve things.

"I believe I'm free to serve food and drinks to under 18s. I just won't open for the extra half an hour at weekends.

"There are two youth centres close to the shop and many of the kids pop in for a quick snack after leaving at weekends.

"Not being able to serve them would have a big impact on me."

Local councillor, Michael Green objected to the proposals as he has received complaints from his constituents about the takeaway.

He said: "There have been problems in the past over noise, litter and nuisance so I don't think it was appropriate to extend the hours.

"I hear things have improved in the last year and do wish the business well though."