A WINE shop will be opened in Newport, despite residents’ objections.

Peter Ancsan was granted a licence to operate Tarna Wines Ltd at 2 Dudley Street, Lliswerry, daily from 10am to 10pm.

Mr Ancsan from Hungary, who moved to the city five years ago, told the council’s sub licensing committee he planned to ship Hungarian wines from his brother’s winery based in the Eger region.

He said customers would be able to taste the wine before their purchase but no other alcohol would be consumed on the premises.

Mr Ancsan said he understood residents' fears that the shop would attract youths and become a public nuisance but said as the wines would be sold at a minimum price of £8 a bottle they would be marketed towards a entirely different type of customer.

He said: “I know you are concerned and I understand but it (the shop) is going to raise the value of the street not pull it down.”

Speaking on behalf of the 51 residents who signed a petition against the application, Robert Evans said local people were concerned about parking, increased traffic and the safety of children.

He said nearby Corporation Road already had problems with youths drinking in the street and neighbours believed the problem would be exacerbated with the opening of an additional off-licence.

PC Rachel Honey said she felt it was not appropriate to have a licensed premises in the middle of a residential street but the licence was granted by members.

Speaking after the meeting Lliswerry councillor Roger Jeavons said he was “flabbergasted” at the decision and felt it was the wrong place for the off-licence.

His colleague Cllr Allan Morris said he shared residents’ concerns and would be monitoring the situation closely.