Proposed changes – licensing policy consultation 2025
Consultation closes: 31 August 2025
Consultation opened: 7 July 2025
We are currently planning a comprehensive update to our Licensing Policy to simplify and clarify the application process for applicants. The new draft policy includes additional sections aimed at providing helpful guidance to applicants. These changes aim to create a more comprehensive policy that better explains the processes involved in applying for licenses under The Licensing Act 2003.
Additionally, they aim to make applicants aware of factors they should consider when submitting applications or planning events.
This will be achieved by enhancing the requirements for licensing applicants and establishing clear expectations.
You informed us during our consultation at the end of last year that we needed to consider how noise generated from licensed premises affects residents, enforce rules and conditions more rigorously, and shorten licensing hours. Where possible, we have taken these into account, and some of the changes listed below have been introduced as a result.
The proposed changes
New sections of the policy
We've added:
- a new section called operating schedule for premises – this explains what applicants should consider when stating the conditions that will become part of their licence. We’ve also included some suggested wording for conditions as appendix C
- a new section for club premises certificates providing greater detail in relation to the criteria that must be satisfied to be classed as a club premises. We’ve also added more information about the types of variation applications that club premises can make
- a new section for advertising requirements providing greater detail in relation to premises licence and club premises certificate applications and variations. Including what alternatives can be accepted where a local newspaper is not available
- a new section for members of the public about commenting (making representations) on licensing applications which explains the process for doing this
- a new section on transfers of premises licence which explains the application process
- a new section on change of name or address for personal licence holders which explains the application process
- a new section on obtaining a copy of a licence which explains the application process and who is entitled to obtain a copy
- a new section on festivals and outdoor events outlining our expectations for event organisers
- a new section on using outdoor spaces outlining our expectations for licence holders/applicants to consider the impact on nearby residents
- a new section on street trading at licensed premises to ensure that applicants/licence holders are aware of additional requirements should street trading take place at their venue
- a new section on shisha, to ensure that applicants/licence holders are aware of additional requirements should they provide shisha at their venue
- a new appendix A which explains the glossary of terms used throughout the policy
- appendix D which is a blank copy of the representation form that can be used to object to licensing applications
- appendix F which lists the offences under The Licensing Act 2003
Upadated sections of the policy
We've:
- updated strategic priorities
- removed licensing policy statement, which will be added to our website instead
- removed the details about the purpose of policy, as this is explained throughout
- replaced Section 5 with a more detailed explanation for the application types, including variation applications
- added more information to the Designated Premises Supervisor section with some best practice advice
- removed authorisations for licensable activities, this has been replaced with appendix F
- moved the information on our delegations and responsible authorities from the policy into appendices instead