Issue - meetings

The Head of Housing and Health submitted a report inviting Members to consider the draft position statement entitled ‘Licensing Decision Making relating to the Night Time Economy’.  The Head commented on ward Members being notified of licensing applications being made in their respective wards.

Members were advised that the position statement would make it clearer to responsible authorities how they could input into the decision making process.  The Head reminded the Committee that the licensing regime was heavily governed by legislation and in particular by the four licensing objectives.

Members were also advised that the intention was to empower those who wished to make representations to the Authority on licensing matters.  The Head commented on the importance of liaising with Town and Parish Councils. 

Various Members referred to specific concerns they had with particular premises.  The Head reminded Members that any concerns had to relate back to the four licensing objectives.  The Chairman referred to the weight that could be attached to the evidence presented to the Licensing Sub-Committee.

Following comments from Councillor B Deering and the Committee Chairman regarding the website and statutory publicity, the Head advised that the Authority was publicising applications for licensable activity and other relevant information in a number of ways in addition to what is required to meet statutory obligations.  The Committee received the report.

RESOLVED – that the wording of the draft position statement be agreed and the need for public consultation be noted.