Police say an application from a South Wimbledon shop to sell alcohol until 2am every day would give rise to public nuisance. 

Wimbledon Food N Wine in Merton High Street can currently sell alcohol until 11pm but has applied to extend its licence until 2am.

It also wants to raise the maximum strength of beer and cider it is able to sell from 5.5 per cent to 6.5 per cent.

The shop is close to the South Wimbledon station, part of the night tube network.

A written representation from Russ Stevens on behalf of Metropolitan Police said: “I am concerned that the extension of hours will encourage people to buy alcohol and loiter close to residential areas late at night.

“People returning home from enjoying Wimbledon town centre’s night time economy, or returning from central London will pass by Wimbledon Food N Wine on their way home.

“Stopping to buy alcohol will likely give rise to antisocial behaviour and public nuisance.”

He added that the force’s concerns were echoed by nearby residents. 

Mr Stevens called on the panel to  revise the terms of the application, recommending alcohol hours are extended to 12am Monday to Thursday, 2am on Friday and Saturday nights and  11pm on Sundays. 

Abbey ward councillor Nigel Benbow has also raised concerns antisocial behaviour would increase.

“Absolutely no respect would be given when it comes to other people’s properties in back streets. Littered with beer cans and bottles,” he said in a letter.

“They find a quiet spot for urinating purposes, as well as a drinking area

space.

“Why should our residents be expected to clear littered beer cans and bottles thrown in their front gardens?”

Merton Council’s licensing sub-committee will consider the application at 10.30am on Wednesday (June 27).

The meeting will take place at Merton Civic Centre in London Road.