The Co-operative Group has launched a bid to secure a new alcohol licence for its supermarket in the growing community of Sherford, near Plymouth. The retail giant has formally applied to the local authority for permission to sell alcohol for off-premises consumption every day of the week.
Details of the Licensing Application
The Co-operative Group Food Limited submitted the application to South Hams District Council under the Licensing Act 2003. It concerns the Co-op store located at The Ride, Hercules Road, Sherford (near PL9 8FA).
The core request is for the authority to grant permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises. The proposed operating hours for this activity are extensive: from 12am (midnight) to 11pm, Monday through Sunday.
A statutory public notice was published in The Herald newspaper on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, and is also available on the online Public Notice Portal.
How the Community Can Respond
The council is now in a formal consultation period, during which local residents and interested parties can submit their views. The deadline for making a representation is Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Those who wish to comment, whether in support or with concerns, must do so in writing. Submissions should be sent to the Licensing Team at South Hams District Council, Follaton House, Totnes, TQ9 5NE. Individuals must include their name, address, and the grounds for their comments.
The council emphasises that it is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application, which can lead to an unlimited fine upon summary conviction.
Council Oversight and Next Steps
If approved, the licence would enable the supermarket to offer off-sales of alcohol for significantly extended hours daily. The council states that any licence granted may include specific conditions to address the core licensing objectives. These objectives cover the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.
The full application can be inspected at the council offices during normal working hours or via the council’s official website. All further details, including any future hearing dates or the final decision, will be published by South Hams District Council in due course.
