Consultation begins for proposed alcohol licensing policy

July 30, 2019 by Leigh-on-sea.com

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council is asking residents and businesses to have their say on the proposed updated Alcohol Licensing Policy.

The policy focuses on the licensing of alcohol, entertainment and late night refreshments within Southend under the Licensing Act 2003. The existing Licensing Policy Statement will end in January 2020 and the council is now asking local people to comment on the proposed updated policy.

As the Licensing Authority, the council is required to prepare and publish an updated policy within five years of the previous one being agreed. 

The Act is centred on four key ‘licensing objectives’. The objectives of the act are:

• Prevention of Crime and Disorder;

• Prevention of Public Nuisance;

• Public Safety

• Protection of Children from Harm

As well as the public, those consulted will include the responsible authorities designated under the Licensing Act as well as trade bodies, faith and equality groups.

The key changes proposed for the revised policy include:-

• Enhanced list of factors for applicants to consider when they are addressing the ‘Licensing Objective’ of ‘The prevention of Crime and Disorder’

• Strengthening of the expectations on Licensee’s in respect of potential nuisance or disorder caused by the operation of their business or the location it is in.

• New section on external area’s attached to licensed premises highlighting control measures available to licensees.

A copy of the draft policy with full details and how to respond can be found on the Councils website at www.southend.gov.uk/licensingpolicy

Cllr Martin Terry, cabinet member for community safety and customer contact, said: “Licensing Policy is an important tool in ensuring a licensing system is in place that is fair to all and helps local residents and visitors have an enjoyable experience in Southend.

Our ambition is to keep our residents safe and well and all residents have a vital role to play in shaping such policy and we welcome their views on the draft policy.”

The consultation is now live and the closing date for responses is 8 September 2019. When the consultation is complete the responses are analysed and a final policy is presented to Cabinet in November to progress through to Council in December 2019