Licensing Policy Consultation

Like all local authorities, the Royal Borough has a policy under the Licensing Act 2003 which sets out how this legislation is implemented in our area and what businesses must do if they want to operate or open a licenced premises in the borough. We are required to review and republish this policy every five years and this is now due, and we want to know what you think.

The policy covers licenced premises such as pubs, restaurants, night clubs, off licences, late night takeaways and sports clubs. It also covers Temporary Event Notices (TENs) for smaller one off events, and personal licences for those involved in the licenced trade.

The primary purpose of the legislation is to regulate the supply of alcohol but it also covers "regulated entertainment" which includes the performance of plays and the showing of films, indoor sporting events, boxing, wrestling, and live and recorded music.

The legislation is based around four licensing objectives which everyone involved in the licenced trade must promote, and they are;

• The prevention of crime and disorder
• Public safety
• The prevention of public nuisance
• The protection of children from harm

The legislation is permissive. This means that we must allow licenced activity such as the supply of alcohol as long as the law, and our policy, is being complied with, and we cannot limit or prohibit such activity beyond what the law allows.

The current policy “Licensing policy statement 2021-2026” can be found at https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2024-06/licensing_policy_statement.pdf

We now have slightly fewer pubs and nightclubs but some areas remain hotspots for the licenced trade. Sales of alcohol to those under 18 remains a problem particularly with there now being more sales of alcohol from off licences rather than pubs.

However, much has changed since our last review. Schemes for the protection of women and girls from violence on licenced premises need to be considered as do wider issues around equality and inclusivity. The introduction of Martyn’s Law will affect larger premises.

For this review of our policy we would like to ensure that everyone with an interest with the licenced trade can be fully engaged with the consultation process so that the new policy can be comprehensive, balanced, and fit to cover the next five years.

This consultation will be open until Tuesday 17th June.

If you need assistance in accessing and completing this online consultation please contact staff at your local library.