OFF-LICENCE owners could be asked to close during matches if there is drink-related trouble when Albion games start at Withdean.

Police chiefs today warned that they would not tolerate boozy football fans who cause problems.

And the first match at the ground will be used as a test case.

Karen Plympton, police licensing officer for Brighton, said: "If there is any trouble we will act swiftly.

"Closing local off-licences would be one of several options."

She added: "We will be working very closely with local licensees but we cannot force them to shut. It would have to be their decision but we would hope to have their co-operation.

"Our job is to make sure Withdean remains a safe environment for local residents and for football fans who want to enjoy the game. If there is no trouble then nothing will change."

Proposals might include closing off-licences two hours before and after matches. But licensees say they cannot afford it.

Alan Sharp, who runs Spar supermarket in Eldred Avenue, which sells alcohol, said: "I fear this could be forced upon us. Closing up would severely affect our business, especially on Saturdays which are our busiest days. People will go elsewhere, which means we could lose other trade.

"I have mixed feelings about the Albion playing at Withdean. It could mean extra trade but we could not afford to close our off-licence."

Colin Montgomery, owner of Westdean Wines in Mill Rise, said: "We would have to shut up completely. Other shops which sell alcohol could still open for other trade. We could not.

"We depend on our local trade. I will fight this all the way, but at the moment we are just waiting to see what happens."

Dozens of police officers and marshalls will be brought in to manage the crowds at Withdean, which could attract 6,000 fans.

There are already fears about parking and emergency vehicles being unable to pass along choked-up streets. And some local people have called for lower council tax bills.

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