HUNDREDS of residents and businesses are being consulted on the future of Liverpool’s Allerton Road.
The road – a thriving nightspot area – is described as “the jewel in the crown of south Liverpool”.
But there are concerns about the number of bars and restaurants springing up and about applications for late opening hours and increasing numbers of pavement cafés.
There are also fears vital neighbourhood services such as greengrocers, butchers and bakers could close down and be replaced by more bars.
The issue will be discussed at a neighbourhood meeting on Monday before a massive community consultation.
Wavertree neighbourhood committee chairman, Cllr Richard Kemp, said: “Allerton Road is still the jewel in the crown of south Liverpool, but it needs diversity.
“We believe the road has reached saturation point as regards licensed places.
“From the bank to the library, there are 15 licensed premises and some are double shops.
“In the last week alone, I’ve had five notifications from the planning department – one for an entirely new bar, one for an extension of hours and three for pavement cafés.
“We’re not saying we don’t want licensed premises. The road is great. It’s just getting the proportion right.
“Similarly we’re not against pavement cafés. But it’s where they’re appropriate and not taking up half the pavement.”
A report due to be discussed at Monday’s meeting says enforcement action is being taken against businesses currently using pavement areas, who are doing so without permission.
Residents are also concerned about late night noise.
div>
Many of the venues are allowed to stay open until midnight under national licensing laws.
One man, who lives just off Allerton Road, said: “A lot of people are up in arms about it. This is a residential area.”
Cllr Kemp said he wants to get both residents and businesses involved in the debate.
An exhibition is planned for Allerton library and questionnaires and e-mails will be sent to homes in the area.
Monday’s meeting takes place at Mosspits Infants School, in Mosspits Lane, at 6.30pm.
IC liverpool
Bookmarks