A PRIMARY school says an area already impacted by drugs and alcohol would suffer more if an application for an alcohol licence is granted.

Basildon Borough Council has received an application for a new shop in Felmores End in Pitsea to be allowed to sell alcohol Monday to Sunday between 8am and 9pm. The shop wants to open on the site of the former Morrisons Daily branch which closed earlier in the year.

The new application has sparked concerns from the headteacher of Briscoe Primary School and Nursery, situated opposite, who has objected to the plan.

Terri Chudleigh said: "As a school serving the local community, we have a duty to safeguard the wellbeing of our pupils and to promote a safe and positive environment for children and families.

"I have significant concerns that granting an additional alcohol licence in this location would be detrimental to the local area and contrary to the licensing objectives, particularly those relating to the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and the protection of children from harm. There is already a Tesco Express within the locality that is licensed to sell alcohol.

"I believe that the existing provision is sufficient for the needs of local residents and that the introduction of an additional outlet would increase the availability and visibility of alcohol in an area that already experiences significant social challenges.

"The Felmores area has long faced issues associated with alcohol and substance misuse. Increasing access to alcohol risks exacerbating these existing problems and may place further strain on community services.

"lt is my concern that greater availability of alcohol could contribute to anti-social behaviour, public nuisance, and potentially increased drug-related activity within the area.

"Many of our pupils walk to and from school each day, often passing through the local shopping area. I do not wish children to be exposed to increased incidents of alcohol consumption outside local shops, intoxicated individuals congregating in public spaces, or behaviour that may cause concern, distress, or fear.

"Such experiences are wholly inappropriate for young children and undermine the safe environment that we strive to provide."

Another objector said in their submissions to the licensing committee: "We have on many occasions had to call the police out for violent behaviour or blokes saying abusive things to mums and parents dropping and collecting their children from the school and pre-school.

"On many occasions we have found people asleep on the benches from the night before due to alcohol abuse and discarded beer and spirit bottles all over the car park and in front of our shops."

A statement from Nisha Convenience stores, which is applying for the permission, said: "The premises shall not operate irresponsible alcohol promotions or deep discount sales designed to encourage excessive purchasing.

"Staff shall take reasonable steps to discourage antisocial behaviour linked to alcohol sales in or immediately outside the premises. Notices shall be displayed at the premises advising customers to leave quietly and respect neighbours."

The committee was scheduled to hear the application on August 12. But this has been adjourned to September 2 due to technical issues.