A controversial liquor store in the east of Christchurch has withdrawn its licensing bid to the delight of locals.

Thirsty Liquor on Pages Road was met with staunch opposition when it re-applied for its license in January, including a thousand-signature petition.

Yesterday the shop withdrew its application, and Aranui Community Trust chairman Rob Davidson is content with the call.

"It's something that the community didn't want and didn't need and the fact that the applicant has exercised the decision making to withdraw the application is great news."

Davidson says the result shows how powerful a community can be when signing from the same song sheet.