A new Tesco store set to open in Cheltenham town centre this February has received approval to sell alcohol, following a licence granted by Cheltenham Borough Council. The store, located at 106 Promenade, will offer alcohol sales starting from 6am and provide late-night refreshments from 11pm until midnight.
During the licensing meeting on December 9, a Tesco representative explained that the company aims to open the new outlet next February. Tesco currently operates five stores in Cheltenham, including one large superstore and four express convenience shops. The new store plans to maintain a targeted, limited range of alcohol suited to local demand.
The representative emphasized that the store will not stock high-strength alcohol products, such as white ciders, unless they fall into the premium or craft category. Alcohol sales will remain a smaller yet important part of the product range, tailored specifically to community preferences.
Councillor Simon Wheeler raised questions about the early morning alcohol sales from 6am to 9am, noting the unusual timing given that local pubs and clubs operate late into the night. Tesco responded that their licensing hours align with their trading hours and that 6am can effectively serve overnight shift workers finishing their day. The store stressed that it is not an off-licence and will offer only a modest selection of alcohol.
The licensing committee approved the application as submitted. Council solicitor Vikki Fennell noted that Tesco’s existing Cheltenham stores had no history of anti-social behaviour linked to alcohol sales, supporting the decision to grant the new premises licence without restrictions.