Health chiefs are trying to block a major supermarket from stocking more alcohol over concerns too much drink is already on sale in Aberdeen.
NHS Grampian has intervened after Sainsbury’s applied to increase the space it gives to off-sales at its new Guild Street store by 21 sq ft.
It is believed that the plan for the store, to be opened this summer, will allow for higher value drinks, such as Champagne, to be displayed behind the tills.
Public health officials have opposed the move amid concerns that over-provision could lead to cheaper, more competitive deals on alcohol.
Licensing chiefs have already stated there are too many licensed premises in the Grampian area, with 635 places to buy or consume alcohol already in business.
Figures already show that the number of alcohol-related hospital admissions is higher in Aberdeen than the Scottish average.
Members of Aberdeen City Council’s licensing board will consider Sainsbury’s application today.
Christopher Littlejohn, consultant in public health at NHS Grampian, said: “The board will be aware that the majority of alcohol is bought from off-sales alcohol outlets where alcohol is cheaper than purchasing from on-sales.
“Drinking within a domestic setting can increase the risks of alcohol-related harms and excessive consumption, leading to health harm.”
Figures show that 84% of Aberdeen’s adult population live less than half a mile from an off-licence.
Talking about the rate of hospital admissions due to alcohol-related issues, Mr Littlejohn – who is opposing the application as he believes it is inconsistent with the aim of improving public health – added: “Aberdeen City has a rising trend, and rates are significantly higher than in Moray or Aberdeenshire, which is unlikely to be by chance.”
Paul Waterson, chief executive of the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, said he supported the stance taken by NHS Grampian, adding competition amongst supermarkets was particularly “fierce” at the moment.
Health chiefs have also objected to plans by The Old School House on Little Belmont Street to increase its capacity from 766 customers to 912.
A Sainsbury’s spokesman said: “As we have now had a chance to finalise the layout of the store, the layout has changed a little. We would hope that a change as small as 2 sqm (21 sqft) would not raise any strategic or public health issues, however we await the council’s decision.”