Still time for local people to help shape borough’s updated licensing policy 

The proposed framework of hours will allow new applicants and  businesses to stay open until midnight and not later than 2am at the weekends. This will allow applicants to have regard to their business model particularly if the businesses are situated in a residential area.

There are more than a thousand local businesses that hold a liquor licence and nearly all are situated either adjacent to or very close to residential properties. 
 
The council believes that the existing controls on opening hours strike the right balance in protecting the interests of residents while allowing local businesses to flourish.
 
However, now that five years have passed since the last review, councillors say it is important that members of the public are given a fresh chance to have their say on the policy.
 
Residents and businesses are now being asked to take part in a consultation and to say whether or not the current system should be retained or if more relaxed opening hours should be permitted. This consultation period runs until 12 February.
 
Head of licensing Caroline Sharkey said: “Five years have passed since our last review, so it’s only right and proper that we ask the question again in line with the legislation to make sure our policies continue to properly reflect the views of local residents and also those of new and existing businesses.
 
"Our ultimate goal is strike the right balance between protecting the interests of residents, taking steps to combat crime and disorder, increase public safety, prevent public nuisance, protect children from harm and also promote the borough's night-time economy.”

For more information about the policy, the consultation and how to take part please visit the council’s website.