Greggs pulls bid for 24-hour location over crime worries | UK News

Gregg’s has cancelled plans to begin a 24-hour location in Kent after locals shared worries of increased crime.

The sausage roll giant had hoped to provide service 24/7 at St George’s Street in Canterbury, but the company has seemingly ditched their bid.

Local councillor Pip Hazelton told KentOnline: ‘I was opposed to the application when it came forward.

‘I suppose my concern is up the top end of St George’s Street there’s been a history of anti-social behaviour, of groups gathering and those kinds of things.

‘The litter, the noise, even relatively small groups of people hanging about – that can be intimidating for other people.’

When Greggs first revealed its plans for approval to Canterbury City Council, some residents were thrilled at the prospect of 24-hour pastries.

Amanda Skinner, 44, said: ‘I think it would be great if Canterbury became a bit more of a 24-hour city.’

Police had approved the plans as long as the Gregg’s worked ‘only as a takeaway during late hours’ and had two security guards from 11pm to 5am.

A Greggs spokesman said: ‘We continue to look at opportunities to extend the opening hours of our shops.

‘Customers can enjoy our full range of great value and fantastic quality products from our shop at St George’s Street, Canterbury, from 6am through to 8.30pm.’

The proposed 24 hour location was less than 500 metres from Canterbury Cathedral – part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts tourists from across the globe.

Concerns had previously been raised about the noise caused by delivery drivers revving to and from food outlets in the early hours.

Greggs also previously tried to bring in a 24-hour service at its Leicester Square store last year – but council bosses snubbed the bid.

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