Babergh District Council hearing due on new Long Melford bookshop proposals

A hearing is due on proposals for a new bookshop in a village.

Joanne May lodged a licensing application with Babergh District Council for a new bookshop at the back of 9 Hall Street, in Long Melford.

She said although the main business would be the sale of books, coffees, teas and other refreshments would be provided alongside bakes and cookies sourced locally.

The shop would be open between 9am and 8pm from Sunday to Wednesday and up to 9pm the remaining days.

Ms May said she would like an alcohol licence to hold book clubs with a glass of wine and speaker events with the possibility of having a beer.

Next Tuesday, however, members of the council's licensing sub-committee will have to weigh the benefits of the new bookshop against concerns raised by two neighbours.

They objected on the grounds the closing hours would impact their ability to enjoy the village's quiet setting, would create the potential for antisocial behaviour due to alcohol and access would be difficult for delivery vans.

Ms May said a notice would be clearly displayed on exit asking all customers to leave quietly to avoid disturbing residents.

Other measures were also outlined to mitigate against alcohol-related problems, including customers not being allowed to leave the premises with opened bottles or glassware.