A fresh convenience outlet has received approval to stock alcoholic beverages following a decision by the local authority.

The establishment, situated at 157 Dyke Road in Hove, will be permitted to offer alcohol between 8am and 11pm each day, after proprietor Isteph Ayoub presented his arguments to Brighton and Hove City Council’s licensing committee.

Local residents filed fourteen complaints against the proposal, expressing worries that the availability of alcohol would draw pupils from the nearby Bhasvic college.

Daniel Bedran voiced support for the application, noting that the owner had no intentions of converting the premises into a drinking establishment.

Mr Ayoub, aged 24, had negotiated stringent conditions with Sussex Police prior to Tuesday’s hearing on March 10, including a prohibition on exterior signage promoting alcohol.

During the hearing before councillors Julie Cattell, Paul Nann and Alison Thomson, he explained that he employed software to detect fraudulent identification documents and had previously identified and turned away underage individuals attempting to purchase restricted items.

The committee members acknowledged being struck by Mr Ayoub’s confident delivery and clear dedication, despite the council generally maintaining a stance against approving additional licences in that vicinity.

The council’s written ruling stated that it was evident the applicant treated his legal obligations regarding alcohol sales with considerable care and possessed an admirable operational history.

The document continued that the arrangement reached with law enforcement officers could justify departing from standard council policy.

The committee concluded that approving the request would not compromise the licensing framework or create additional problems for the neighbourhood.