Community leaders have backed a new licensing policy which will prevent clusters of off-licenses and convenience stores selling alcohol.

Croydon Council want to introduce Cumulative Impact Zones in 17 out of 24 wards in the borough.

This means that the applicant faces a harder task to have their licensing application accepted if objections are raised that their applications will cause problems in that particular area.

The aim is to avoid clusters of shops all selling alcohol. The new rule will also apply to pubs and clubs.

Kirsty Pearce, from New Addington Pathfinders, said a number of residents had backed the proposals.

She said: "It would be lovely to encourage shops that we need up here. People on our (Pathfinders Facebook) page call Central Parade alcohol alley. These measures can add more variety to the area."

Coucnilor Tony Pearson, of New Addington Ward, said the policy has to get past the consultation phase first but said residents would welcome the changes.

He said: “In Central Parade and in New Addington we do have a problem with street drinking which has a knock on affect to anti social behaviour.

“It gives power back to residents. If they feel there are too many shops selling alcohol they can object.”

All wards in Croydon North will have a cumulative zone and Steve Reed, MP for the constituency, welcomed the proposals.

He said: “People want a range of shops near where they live, and they often tell me that betting shops and off-licences can encourage anti-social behaviour, particularly when there’s a cluster of them.

“It’s about time the council cracked down on this nuisance.”