CONTROVERSIAL plans to open an off licence in a regenerated housing estate have been approved –- despite residents’ fears it will attract trouble.

Basildon Council’s licensing committee granted the store, in Dawsons Court, King Edward Road, Laindon, a licence to sell alcohol.

The shop is situated in a regenerated part of the Royal Court estate, where high-rise flats which used to be plagued with antisocial behaviour are being replaced with 129 low-rise homes which it is hoped will attract less troublemakers. Residents expressed concern before the meeting that an off licence could attract yobs back to the area and 124 people signed a petition opposing the application.

However, councillors granted manager Visuvalingham Arularasan, 43, from London, the alcohol licence – on the condition he installs CCTV cameras covering all entrances and exits to the shop and surrounding areas requested by police.

He must also ask anyone who looks under 25 and tries to buy alcohol for identification.

Mr Arularasan said: “I am pleased with the result and am happy to serve the community.”

The shopkeeper currently runs a convenience store that sells alcohol in Brookmead, also on the Royal Court estate, which has a history of problems with antisocial behaviour.

He applied to move to Dawsons Court because the Brookmead shop will be demolished as part of the regeneration plans.

His solicitor said: “My client had no choice but to make a new application and relocate.

“The cause of problems at the current store, such as litter and antisocial behaviour, should not be linked to this new shop and should be based on evidence and facts.

“Strong alcohol will be stored behind the counter and other drinks in the corner of the store.”

The new shop, which will also sell groceries, will close at 10pm, Monday to Sunday – not 11pm as was feared by residents.

It will open on October 12.

A resident, who asked to remain anonymous, was still worried it will become a hub for troublemakers.

She said: “Antisocial behaviour is evident with the store in Royal Court and we do not want the same to happen in Dawsons Court.”