Residents of the local community of a convenience store in Bradford, that was found to be selling illegal goods on multiple occasions, are pleading the Bradford Council not to shut down the business, arguing that the store offers “products that cannot be found elsewhere.”
Bradford Council has begun a licensing review of a local convenience store called Fresh Market, after West Yorkshire Police and Trading Standards raised concerns about the sale of counterfeit cigarettes at the business.
The review could see the current licence holder, Lukas Kazlauskas, stripped of his licence to sell alcohol.
A report to the panel said police and Trading Standards had visited the shop in June, August and October, and each time found illegal products on sale.
These included hundreds of packets of contraband cigarettes and numerous “unsafe” items for sale, including moth balls, sparklers, medication with foreign labelling and suspected prescription only drugs.
A statement from police said, “It is concerning that, on three visits to the premises in the last five months alone, suspected illicit tobacco/cigarettes and other products have been seized on each occasion.”
The hearing was scheduled last week but had to be postponed to next month after it emerged Kazlauskas was in hospital in Lithuania, and was unable to attend the hearing.
Despite the seizure of illegal products from the store on multiple occasions, some of the local residents are opposing the council's actions on the store.
Acording to media reports, Bradford Council has also received a petition calling for the panel to show leniency to the business – saying local residents “value the products that cannot be found elsewhere.”
It appears the petition has been signed by dozens of people.
It reads: “We, the residents and supporters of Allerton, strongly urge you to take all necessary action to prevent the closure of Fresh Market.
“Fresh Market is not just a business; it is a vital part of our community fabric. Its closure would have a significant negative impact on residents, particularly the elderly and vulnerable who rely on its accessible location and friendly service.
“It is a place for social interaction, supports local employment, and helps maintain the unique character and economic vibrancy of our neighbourhood.
“Without it, residents may be forced to travel further for essential goods, increasing reliance on cars and contributing to a feeling of isolation. We value the specific products/services that cannot be found elsewhere.
“Ensuring the survival of Fresh Market demonstrates a commitment to community values, sustainability, and local identity, showing that people and local character are valued over corporate interests.”