A shop located in an area already known for street drinking has received approval to sell alcohol.
New York Mini-Market will be permitted to trade alcoholic beverages until 10pm after meeting certain requirements designed to prevent harm to the community.
The outlet on New York Street had its operating times shortened, while limits were also imposed on the alcoholic content of products available.
Bill Donne, a licensing expert appearing on behalf of the applicant, assured council members that individuals who were drunk or underage would be refused service.
He stated that the premises would comply with conditions proposed by West Yorkshire Police and was satisfied with the 10pm closing time.
Leeds City Council received four letters of opposition, expressing worry about the possibility of increased disorder in the area.
One submission highlighted that vulnerable individuals and those without permanent accommodation were frequently observed consuming alcohol outdoors in the vicinity of the store, also trading as Leeds Mini Market.
The letter expressed concern about existing problems with street drinking and related anti-social conduct in the neighbourhood.
During the licensing session, members heard that the establishment falls within a Cumulative Impact Area, an area identified as experiencing significant problems linked to alcohol.
Another objector commented that the surroundings of Leeds Bus Station and the city centre already suffer from difficulties including street drinking, anti-social conduct, hostility and disturbances related to alcohol consumption.
The licence was approved after Tuesday’s hearing at Leeds Civic Hall.
Requirements attached to the licence prohibited alcohol from being promoted or shown in the shop window.
Shoppers would additionally be asked not to consume drinks in the vicinity of the building.
Mr Donne remarked that effective oversight was essential, a standard he was confident the applicant could achieve.
He argued that an establishment of this size offering a diverse range of merchandise posed no threat of causing disturbance.
He acknowledged the location presented challenges, but maintained that commercial enterprises ought to be permitted to operate.
