Plans to allow two of Newcastle city centre’s busiest Greggs branches to open 24 hours a day have been delayed, as concerns grow over potential impacts on crime and anti-social behaviour
00:00Plans to allow two of Newcastle City Centre's busiest Greggs branches to open 24 hours a day have been delayed, as concerns grow over potential impacts on crime and antisocial behaviour.
00:10The popular bakery chain has applied to extend the opening hours at its Neville Street and Granger Street stores, both located in high footfall areas, close to bars, clubs and Newcastle Central Station.
00:21If approved, the Neville Street branch could trade 24-7, while the Granger Street outlet would be permitted to sell food and drink until 5am daily.
00:30However, the Plans have met opposition from Northumbria Police, who argue the area already suffers from elevated levels of alcohol-related disorder.
00:38The forces voiced fears that longer trading hours could add pressure to already stretched resources late at night.
00:44The application was due to be heard by Newcastle City Council's Licensing Subcommittee this week, but the meeting has been postponed an extra week at the replicers' request.
00:54The delay will give officers more time to prepare and submit further evidence on the issue.
00:59Greggs had previously offered to scale back its plans, suggesting reduced public trading hours, but asking to keep the premises accessible around the clock for staff access and baking operations.
01:10No compromise was reached with council officials, however.
01:13The company already runs a 24-hour branch at Newcastle International Airport, but withdrew a similar plan for its Leicester Square store in London in 2023.
01:22Speaking at the licensing meeting, Greggs' legal representative, Ben Williams, criticised the delay, arguing that police had ample time to raise specific objections related to Greggs' operations.
01:34While acknowledging the city centre does face public safety challenges, he insisted Greggs is not contributing to the problem.
01:40Licensing chair councillor George Patterson said the matter should be resolved quickly.
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