AN OFF licence at a Polish food shop could encourage the return of unruly street alcoholics, it is claimed.

The concern follows an application by Wrexham-based M & W Foods Ltd to Chester City Council for a premises licence at 89 Brook Street.

The move brought a strong response from Robert Bluck, director of Bryn Melyn Retailing which runs the Londis at 79-81 Brook Street.

The licence will increase crime and disorder and the threat to public safety and encourage nuisance, he insists.

'The campaign to rid the area of street drunks and undesirables has been hard won,' said Mr Bluck.

Premises supervisor Monika Sylwia Czaja insists the licence would be an adjunct to the business and that disorderly customers would not be served.

Councillors agreed her application subject to revised hours and conditions.