A fight broke out in a spot known for street drinking – just days after a new off licence was given the go ahead.

London Ambulance Service was called to reports of an assault on Greenhill Parade, off Great North Road, in New Barnet, at 7.06pm on Friday, June 12.

A man believed to be in his 40s was treated at the scene and taken to hospital.

Plans for a new off licence on Greenhill Parade were approved earlier this month by Barnet council’s licensing sub-committee, despite objections from neighbours, who claim street drinkers regularly congregate in the area, causing noise and anti-social behaviour.

Rebecca Hanley, of Leicester Road, New Barnet, said the fight was proof of anti-social behaviour in the area, which would be “exacerbated” by the new shop.

Mrs Hanley, 48, said: “It’s a concern for residents. I am astonished they have given the go-ahead for another outlet given the number of alcohol problems in the area. It exacerbates the problem.

“It just seems that both the police and the council have their hands tied. It seems ridiculous that directly opposite where street drinkers sit, somebody should be allowed to open an off licence.

“There are already two shops and pubs facing it. To add another one seems to be adding insult to injury. It would be like opening a betting shop in front of a bench where lots of gamblers sit. It lacks common sense.”

Mrs Hanley, a journalist who has lived in the area with her family for nine years, added: “I understand that the person who opens it, it isn’t their fault, but it seems to be one of those rules that defies common sense. It’s adding temptation before people who are already easily tempted.”

Despite objections from people living nearby, no objections were put forward by the Metropolitan Police to Barnet council.

The applicants said the shop will use CCTV, and staff will discourage people from congregating outside the shop.

Speaking to the Times Series last week, Mill Hill councillor John Hart, who sits on the committee, said: “You can make the point there are too many alcohol outlets, but the licence law at present does not stipulate the number of outlets in any area. You can have them side by side all down the street.

“If there is a nuisance or crime or whatever, then you can revoke the licence. But in this case there is no threat. The police had no objections. It’s one of those things we couldn’t stop.”