A KILWINNING takeaway's bid to deliver booze, cigarettes and vapes to customers has been refused by licensing chiefs.

Fat Boys, based at Station Plaza, had applied to North Ayrshire Council's licensing board to sell alcohol, cigarettes and vapes alongside the current offering of hot food. They would also be sold as part of its delivery service.

But there were late objections to the plan from locals, including a petition which said there was overprovision for alcohol sales in the Pennyburn area

Pennyburn PRYDE chairman William Duffy told the board: "We didn't find out about this application until last week.

"There a high percentage of under age drinkers in Pennyburn which is classed as a deprived area. If there was an off sales outlet near the station it would exacerbate the problems."

Solicitor Robert Honeyman, acting for owner Lovepreet Singh, told the board deliveries of alcohol or tobacco products would be strictly monitored.

He said: "There must be proof of ID on delivery. The deliveries will be made through various apps such as JustEat or Deliveroo, but Mr Singh will also have his own drivers, who will take a course.

"The Challenge 25 policy (where anyone who looks under 25 will be asked for ID before a sale) will be adhered to."

He said the off-licence would have a separate serving area within the premises that will only be accessible to staff members with a secure counter for the public to order from.

This would prevent any children or young persons accessing this area and still allow them to enter the premises to order food from the food counter.

But board member Cllr Christina Larsen said: "Not everyone has valid ID such as a driving licence or passport."

Mr Honeyman replied: "Customers will be told of the ID system and if it is not produced, it will be no sale and the order will be returned."

However, after an adjournment, the licensing board agreed to refuse the application.

Board chair Councillor Eleanor Collier told Mr Singh: "We have decided to reject this and the key reason is over provision and protecting public health and protecting young people in particular. We will consider an amended future application."