A NATIONAL off-licence chain is to open its first branch in the north Durham area despite objections from local people.

Bargain Booze, of Crewe, Cheshire, has 550 franchised premises around the country. It will open in a converted former kitchen and bathroom sales premises in Consett later this month.

It follows a successful licence application yesterday by Claire Bulman, who is to be the franchisee of the Medomsley Road premises.

North Durham Licensing Justices heard that letters of objection were submitted, raising concerns over youths congregating near the shop; the prospect of under-age customers causing a drunken disturbance in the area; and youths pestering older people to go into the shop to buy them alcohol.

The hearing was told that a home for elderly people lies opposite the premises, with the prospect of residents and staff being troubled by youths milling in the vicinity.

But assurances were given that strict controls would be in operation at the shop, in line with Bargain Booze national policy.

Ms Bulman, of Perkinsville, near Chester-le-Street, told the hearing that the shop would have a comprehensive closed-circuit television system, with eight internal cameras, two external cameras and a door camera to film people entering the premises.

There will also be panic buttons and an automatic door- locking mechanism if staff fear undesirables may be attempting to enter.

She said she also plans to invoke Bargain Booze's policy of not selling drink to anyone under the age of 21, to eliminate any chance of under-age customers with more mature looks being served.

"If there is any indication whatsoever that someone is under 21, I will not hesitate to ask their age and if they have not got photo-identity proof, with either a passport or Portman (identity) card, then they'll not get served.

"We want to ensure people coming in are over 21 and are not going round the corner selling alcohol to someone under-age.

"We'll be using the cameras outside the shop to check for this and we'll report it if we think its happening."

The magistrates granted approval, subject to an inspection visit prior to the shop's scheduled opening on November 24.