Residents in Newark are opposing a proposed Wawa convenience store, alleging it would increase the amount of crime and prostitution in the area.

A vacant lot in Newark is expected to become home to the city's very first Wawa.

But a neighborhood association has filed a suit against city planners and the lot owners to stop development.

Neighborhood group president Lisa Grey says a 24-hour convenience store with no security would only encourage crime in the area.

City officials declined to comment on the issue, and Wawa Inc. did not immediately return calls for comment.

The lawsuit filed May 22 contends the city planning board approved the project, even though a majority of the panel's members didn't vote to approve it.