Former pub to be turned into off-licence despite 100 people signing objections

A Sheffield off-licence has been given permission to sell alcohol despite more than 100 people signing a petition against it.

Sheffield City Council 's licensing sub-committee has approved the licence for Byards Leap (E and A Premier) Owner Mohammad Emmad Aslam will now trade from Monday to Friday, 9am to 10.30pm, Saturday from 10am to 10.30pm, and Sunday from 10am until 9.30pm.

Despite facing opposition in the form of a 105-signature petition featured on the council's website, Mr Aslam addressed the committee by expressing his surprise at the petition and suggesting that rival businesses were behind the move, citing deceitful tactics used to garner signatures. "They lied to them," Mr Aslam declared regarding the competing store's approach.

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He highlighted misinformation allegedly spread by the petitioners suggesting an expansion of his premises. "The reason they are not here (at the meeting) because they know they are going to be held accountable for it," he said.

To counter the negative petition, the business owner also presented a petition in favour of his application. Moreover, Mr Aslam reassured the committee about his six years of trouble-free experience in the industry.

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