Locals join opposition to Newmarket off-licence

Newmarket residents have joined local police in objecting to a liquor store opening next to the railway station, saying the site is inappropriate and the town has enough drink outlets.

The Station Square site is near apartment blocks, and their body corporates, as well as the Broadway Residents' Society Committee, are opposed to Liquor Mate's application for an off-licence.

The Newmarket Business Association, Newmarket Protection Society and Newmarket police are also opposing the application to the Auckland District Licensing Agency.

"We are totally opposed to the liquor licence in that position, the hours proposed by the applicant and effects on community surrounding Station Square," said Broadway Residents' Society Committee chairman John Fauvel.

About 1000 people live in Broadway apartment blocks.

Jacqui Dahlin, of Liquor Concepts, which represents licence applicants Min Sung Kim and Ji Sun Chang, said they did not envisage being a discount operation aimed at youthful drinkers. Instead, they would offer a good selection of quality wines.

She said the community should be aware that any licence granted would be for one year and subject to review.