**Domino’s Seeks Permission for 5am Trading in Merthyr Tydfil—Local Concerns Emerge**
A branch of Domino’s Pizza in Merthyr Tydfil has applied for an extended licence to sell food until 5am, sparking mixed reactions from the local community and members of the council. The proposed change, currently under consideration by the council’s licensing committee, has ignited a debate about late-night business operations and their impact on residents living nearby.
The application, submitted for the Domino’s branch at Unit One, Glove & Shears House on Court Street, outlines plans to serve “late night refreshment” from 11pm to 5am. While the official opening hours would span midnight to midnight, the proposal includes a stipulation that the premises would only be open to the public until 2am. After this time, all orders between 2am and 5am would be for delivery only, with no in-store collection.
South Wales Police have weighed in on the application, noting that the applicant has implemented comprehensive external CCTV measures. The force stated that these provisions would aid with any future investigations into crime, anti-social behaviour, or safeguarding concerns during both day and night. A police spokesperson observed that good CCTV coverage is especially important given the store’s proximity to a sizeable residential area and its location as a frequent pathway for those leaving the town centre late at night.
The police made additional recommendations to ensure the CCTV policy remains effective and clear. In their view, properly worded conditions would guarantee that surveillance covers all entrance and exit points, as well as the store’s forecourt. The specifics of the condition call for a high-resolution, digital CCTV system capturing all public areas, with clear retention of images for up to 31 days, readily accessible for police or enforcement agencies if needed.
Furthermore, the police emphasised the broader purpose of such surveillance. Not only could it facilitate responses to criminal activity, but it would also serve to safeguard Domino’s staff, customers, and especially delivery drivers operating during the early hours. Signage is also to be displayed prominently, reminding customers to respect local residents by keeping noise to a minimum when leaving the premises.
Despite police assurances and the inclusion of these safety-driven measures, concerns persist among local councillors. Councillor John Thomas expressed reservations about the necessity for food deliveries stretching as late as 5am. He highlighted tangible worries about sleep disruption for residents, pointing to vehicle noise and the recurring problem of delivery drivers arriving at incorrect addresses as dictated by their satellite navigation systems.
Councillor David Jones, also representing the town ward, stated openly that he opposes the proposed change. He referenced persistent disturbances associated with the business, including loud music, car doors slamming, and even drivers shouting or using offensive language in the street. Traffic issues have reportedly been exacerbated, with delivery vehicles blocking junctions and their headlights shining through the windows of local homes. Jones also flagged the lack of adequate on-site parking, arguing that drivers reversing on and off a busy main road pose a risk both for traffic flow and for safety.
Residents’ frustrations appear to be magnified by the frequency and intensity of these issues late at night and in the early morning. As the delivery period would be extended to 5am under the new licence, some fear this could only make matters worse. Domino’s drivers, it is claimed, often park on nearby Alma Street, prioritising their proximity to the store over consideration for the streets’ residents.
The application is scheduled for a hearing by the licensing committee on Wednesday, 7 May, where all concerns and supporting arguments will be formally discussed. The council will then decide whether or not to grant the extended trading hours, taking into account both the economic arguments for greater business flexibility and the quality of life for local families.
This debate highlights the growing tension in many UK towns where increased demand for round-the-clock services collides with the expectations of longstanding residential communities. As late-night economies continue to grow, many will be watching closely to see how Merthyr Tydfil navigates the balance between commercial vitality and preserving a peaceful environment for its residents. The outcome of this case could set an important precedent for similar businesses across the region.