A convenience store in East Reading has submitted an application to extend late-night alcohol sales, a move that could change trading and noise patterns in a busy neighbourhood close to housing and other food businesses.
What has been applied for
The business, M&M Food & Wine in the Wokingham Road shopping area, has asked Reading Borough Council’s licensing department for permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises between 07:00 and 00:00 every day of the week. The application covers all seven days and would allow the retailer to operate later than at present.
Current opening and proposed hours
| Item | Current | Proposed |
|---|---|---|
| Opening start | 08:00 daily | 07:00 daily |
| Closing (Mon–Sat) | 23:00 | 00:00 |
| Closing (Sun) | 22:30 | 00:00 |
Why this matters locally
The Wokingham Road parade is a mixed-use strip of shops, takeaways and residences. An extension of alcohol-selling hours can have a number of practical effects for the immediate area, including:
- changes to footfall and late-night activity on the street;
- potential impacts on residential amenity from noise and litter;
- shifts in competition for nearby food and drink outlets.
The application therefore triggers a statutory consultation so neighbours and other stakeholders can make representations before the council decides whether to grant the licence.
"You can respond to it by emailing licensing@reading.gov.uk. The deadline for responses is Thursday, July 23."
How residents can take part
The consultation is being handled by Reading Borough Council’s licensing team. Anyone wishing to comment should email licensing@reading.gov.uk before the stated deadline of Thursday, 23 July. Comments may be considered as part of the council’s determination of the application.
Local people may wish to consider whether the proposed hours would affect sleep, safety, or the local environment, or conversely whether extended availability of everyday supplies and convenience purchases would be beneficial.
This application forms part of the routine management of licensing in the borough, and the council will weigh representations against licensing objectives when reaching a decision.
Readers who live near Wokingham Road or use the shopping parade regularly should take this opportunity to register their views with the council while the consultation remains open.
