**Domino’s Merthyr Tydfil Permitted Late-Night Deliveries Amid Concerns from Residents**
A Domino’s pizza outlet in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil has been awarded permission to extend its delivery service until 5am, following a recent decision made by the local council’s licensing committee. The decision comes in the wake of a lively debate, with community fears over antisocial behaviour set against the company’s assurances of responsible operation.
The branch, located at Unit One, Glove & Shears House on Court Street, applied for a new premises licence that would authorise the sale of hot food well into the small hours. Under the granted terms, Domino’s can now serve late-night refreshments between 11pm and 5am. A notable condition restricts customers from physically entering the premises beyond 2am, meaning all business beyond this time is strictly limited to deliveries.
This application provoked a response from local ward councillors, who presented resident concerns about potential disturbances. Fears were voiced that extended trading hours could encourage gatherings of intoxicated individuals or those involved in drug use, causing discomfort or even danger to the neighbourhood.
Additionally, some locals reported issues with Domino’s delivery drivers, claiming instances of speeding through residential streets as they rushed to complete orders. The committee considered these claims, but noted that any suspected traffic offences would fall under the responsibility of law enforcement, adding that South Wales Police had not flagged any complaints with the branch.
Other aspects highlighted by objectors included worries over drivers parking in residents’ permit-only areas, disruptive noise from car stereos and slamming doors, excessive conversations among drivers outside the outlet, and an increase in litter believed to be linked to takeaway customers. However, upon review, the licensing committee was not convinced that these issues could be squarely attributed to Domino’s. They reasoned that, given the outlet’s proximity to the town centre and the abundance of other licensed venues nearby, late-night nuisance was likely a shared issue.
To address the issue of drivers potentially misusing parking spaces, the applicant agreed to a specific licence condition preventing drivers from entering permit-only zones. Domino’s representatives also assured the committee that drivers receive comprehensive training before beginning deliveries, and that disciplinary action would be taken against anyone found acting inconsiderately.
When asked about expected business levels, Domino’s clarified that its peak trading time occurs during early evening hours, with demand tapering off significantly in the later hours. After 2am, the premises will be closed to the public, with doors locked and external lighting switched off to minimise disturbance. This, the committee judged, would help ensure disruption was kept to a minimum, assuming drivers acted in line with company standards.
On the matter of litter, the committee found insufficient evidence to hold Domino’s directly responsible for rubbish in the area, remarking that refuse in the town centre was more likely the cumulative result of multiple takeaway and licensed venues operating in close proximity.
The outlet has also agreed to uphold a South Wales Police recommendation to maintain CCTV on site and reinforce messaging around antisocial behaviour, encouraging customers to be mindful of local residents. Domino’s expressed its commitment to building and maintaining positive relations with the Merthyr Tydfil community.
This decision reflects the balancing act between supporting local business aspirations and addressing residents’ quality of life concerns, a recurring theme in towns bustling with late-night economy activity.
Residents and businesses alike will be watching closely as the new operating hours come into effect, with both sides hoping the measures taken will allow the community to coexist peacefully.