Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board is applauding the community for its concerted efforts to reduce alcohol-related harm, following news of a liquor outlet shutting its doors.
After objections to a licence application from the community, supported by the local board, and inspections by Auckland Council staff, the Thirsty Liquor store on Vine Street has closed.
The decision by the District Licencing Committee to reject the application follows the rejection of a liquor licence application from Graces Place/Hi Sports Bar in Māngere East.
Glenn McCutcheon, Chair of Communities Against Alcohol Harm Inc and one of the local community objectors, says it has been a team effort to achieve this result.
“This is a very welcome outcome for the community who have strenuously opposed this liquor store over the years."
"One less liquor store in the heart of Māngere East can only reduce the harm from alcohol in this community."
Local board proud to support community's initiative
Local board member Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich has been taking the lead for the board on this issue.
He says reining in the proliferation of alcohol outlets in the community is hugely satisfying, given the damage cheap booze is having.
“It has been a priority for the board from the beginning of our term and it shows that when our community is empowered it can shape a better future for itself.”
