Sainsbury Backs Down On Appeal
In an unexpected u-turn, Sainsbury's has dropped its appeal against a six
week suspension of its licence to sell alcohol at 510 Blackfen Road, Sidcup.
In January 2008, Bexley's Licensing Sub Committee heard how the Sainsbury
Local had continually failed test purchases, with staff at the store selling
alcohol to children on four separate occasions. This was despite staff having
had the benefit of Sainsbury’s own in-house training, as well as advice
and guidance from Council and police. As a result, the store's alcohol licence
was suspended for six weeks, with extra conditions imposed to prevent further
under-age sales taking place once the licence is reinstated.
Despite representatives of Sainsbury’s accepting that there had been
problems at the store, the company decided to appeal the decision to Bexley
Magistrates. The appeal was due to be heard on 10 and 11 May, but just a
few days beforehand, on 6 May, Sainsbury's had a change of heart and withdrew.
This means that the original decision stands and the store cannot sell alcohol
for six weeks.
Cllr Mike Slaughter, Chairman of the Bexley's Licensing Committee, said: “I’m
pleased Sainsbury's has decided not to appeal the decision.
"The Council is well aware that it has a duty to make proportionate
and reasonable decisions. The fact that Sainsbury's has withdrawn its appeal
demonstrates that the original decision was fair and balanced."
Chief Inspector Steve Murrant of Bexley police said: "It was apparent
from the evidence that children were able to buy alcohol at the store and
no retailer, no matter how large, should be exempt from the consequences
of such actions. However, in accepting the Council’s decision, Sainsbury's
have shown their willingness to work with the police and Council and this
can only be a positive step."
