Issue - meetings

RESOLVED – that (A) the report be received; and;

(B)      the revised Statement of Licensing Policy, as now submitted, be approved to take effect from 1 August 2016.

(see also Minute 205)

The Chief Executive submitted a report that presented the responses to consultation in respect of the Statement of Licensing Policy. 

The Senior Specialist Licensing Officer explained that the policy was last reviewed five years ago but due to emerging issues in relation to the links between alcohol misuse and its impact on public health, a decision had been taken to review the policy.  He provided a summary of the policy and the revisions made, the detail of which was set out in the report.  The Senior Specialist Licensing Officer explained that the draft document that set out the Council’s visions, aspirations and licensing functions, had undergone wide consultation and legal advice had been sought and provided, on the proposed changes.  He provided a summary of the comments received. 

Members debated the report at length, including classifications of premises and definitions of primary use.  Members discussed alcohol being sold at petrol stations and the need to note that individuals needed to be responsible for their own actions in terms of buying and consumption.

Members thanked the Officer for the report and sought reassurances that the Council was doing all it could to ensure that the licensing policy was robust and enforceable.

The Committee received the report and recommended the revised Statement of Licensing Policy, as now detailed.

RECOMMENDED – that (A) the report be received; and;

(B)   the revised Statement of Licensing Policy, as now submitted, be approved to take effect from 1 August 2016.