In England and Wales, selling alcohol, providing regulated entertainment or serving hot food late at night generally needs a premises licence under the Licensing Act 2003, while Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own systems. Applying involves an operating schedule describing how the venue will promote the licensing objectives, such as preventing crime and disorder and public nuisance, alongside plans of the premises, fees, newspaper and on-site notices and a consultation period. Responsible authorities, including police and environmental health, and local residents can make representations, which may lead to a hearing before the council's licensing committee. Retail sales of alcohol need a designated premises supervisor holding a personal licence.
Many councils have cumulative impact policies in busy areas, making new licences harder to obtain. Planning permission is a separate process and may be needed for change of use or late hours. Talking to the police licensing team and neighbours early can avoid objections. Allow plenty of time, because delays can push back opening.
What we ask on the show
- What's the toughest condition you've ever had put on a licence?
- Should new venues talk to neighbours before applying?
- Are cumulative impact policies killing nightlife?
- What do you wish you'd known before your first licence application?