Statement of Licensing Policy - Licensing Act 2003 - 7 January 2026 to 6 January 2031

The council has a statutory duty under Section 5 of the Licensing Act 2003 to determine and publish a Statement of Licensing Policy. This policy has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Act and the Guidance issued by the Home Office under Section 182 of the Act.

3.2 The Licensing Authority is responsible for:

• the licensing of licensable activities under the Licensing Act 2003 (The Act)
• ensuring that those who are authorised under the Act comply with the requirements; and
• ensuring that only those who are duly authorised to carry out licensable activities do so

3.3 This document sets out the Licensing Authority's policy as to how it will fulfil its obligations and achieve its strategic aims in this respect.

3.4 This Policy should be read in conjunction with the Act itself, the Home Office Guidance made under Section 182 of the Act, and the other policies and guidance that are referred to in this document.

3.5 This Licensing Authority regards each of the Licensing Objectives to be of equal importance. They are:

• the prevention of crime and disorder
• public safety
• the prevention of public nuisance
• the protection of children from harm

3.6 This document sets out the policies the Licensing Authority will generally apply to promote the Licensing Objectives when making decisions under the Act, and when addressing non-compliance with the Act itself or any authorisations issued under the Act. The Licensing Authority will consider deviating from the policy on a case-by-case basis, where it believes it to be appropriate and proportionate in all the relevant circumstances.