Decision day looms for new Co-op at Ipswich Station amid petition for refusal

A decision is due on proposals for a new retail store in Ipswich’s train station amid a petition for refusal.

The proposals were submitted by the East of England Co-operative Society Limited for a new retail store in an empty unit at the station, in Burrell Road.

On Wednesday, the council’s licensing and regulatory sub-committee will consider the proposals, which also include the sale of alcohol.

If approved, the store would be open between 6am and 11pm Monday to Saturday, and 7am- 10pm on a Sunday.

The plans have, however, received some backlash, with a 21-signature petition being lodged against it citing concerns over safety, litter and public disorder.

It read: “Introducing an establishment that serves alcohol could increase the risk of anti-social behaviour, potentially endangering passengers and staff, especially during peak hours.

“Alcohol consumption often leads to unruly behaviour, which could disrupt the peaceful environment of the station and compromise the safety and comfort of passengers.”

Some of these were supported by the constabulary, which asked for two conditions to be included with the plans.

These were the limiting of alcohol sales on Ipswich Town matchdays to four bottles or cans, or a single litre bottle, as well as a reminder to customers of the public spaces protection order in place in the town centre — both of these have been included by the applicant.

Stuart McDonald, chief property officer for the applicant, said the company was used to handling and mitigating anti-social behaviour risks and argued the new store would offer commuters and residents a better retail offer.

He added: “We have in place detailed and robust systems, policies, procedures and training to ensure our operations do not have adverse impacts on the licensing objectives in the areas where they are located.”

Mr McDonald added that only three individuals from the petition lived close to the site.