New shop Dr Cloud in Chessington granted alcohol licence despite resident concerns
A new shop in Chessington has been granted an alcohol licence despite concerns from residents about potential increases in crime, disorder, and public nuisance.
Dr Cloud, located at Unit 4, Chessington North Railway Station, Bridge Road, will now be permitted to sell alcohol for off-premises consumption between 9am and 11pm, seven days a week. Off-premises consumption means the alcohol is intended to be consumed away from the shop itself. The specific types of alcohol available for sale were not detailed in the application.
The decision was made by the Kingston upon Thames Licensing Sub-Committee on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, following a hearing where local residents voiced objections. The committee was required to take into account the Secretary of State's guidance, their own licensing policy, and the licensing objectives, alongside representations received and evidence heard at the hearing. Public reports pack Tuesday 20-Oct-2026 09.45 Licensing Sub-Committee
Concerns raised by six residents included the potential for increased anti-social behaviour, groups congregating in the station car park, litter, and alcohol-related disorder due to the proposed late operating hours. Some objectors also highlighted the proximity of the proposed alcohol sales to a vape shop, which they argued attracts a high volume of young people. One representation stated: The premises continues to operate primarily as a vape shop, a business model that naturally attracts a high volume of underage youths, teenagers, and young adults. Introducing alcohol sales (09:00 to 23:00) into an environment predominantly frequented by young people creates an unacceptable risk of exposure to alcohol marketing and drastically increases the likelihood of proxy purchasing.
During the hearing, the applicant's agent, Manpreet Singh Kapoor, assured the committee that measures such as a 'Challenge 25' policy, CCTV with 31-day recording, and staff training would be implemented. The 'Challenge 25' policy requires that photographic identification, such as passports, photocard driving licenses, or PASS-approved age cards, be requested from anyone appearing to be under 25 attempting to purchase alcohol. Notices advising customers of this policy will be displayed. Staff will receive training, with records kept and refresher training occurring every six months. The applicant also committed to displaying notices asking customers to leave quietly and to implement a no-loitering policy outside the premises.
Trading Standards initially raised concerns regarding the protection of children from harm. However, these concerns were withdrawn following mediation and amendments to the applicant's operating schedule. These amendments, reflected in the conditions shown in Annex 3 of the report, satisfied the concerns raised by Trading Standards.
The committee granted the licence after deliberation, noting the applicant's proposed operating schedule and commitments to responsible operation.