The report on the Licensing Act 2003.  (as amended) required that each Licensing Authority produce a Statement of Licensing Policy in respect of each 5 –year period.  The report requested that Members considered the draft Licensing Policy for period 2016 -2021 and agreed that it undergo a 12 week consultation.  The final adopted policy must be agreed by Ordinary Council and published no later than 31 January 2016.

A motion was MOVED by Councillor McCheyne and SECONDED by Councillor Mynott to agree the recommendations in the report.

A vote was taken by a show of hands and it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: 

1.            The amendments to the Statement of Licensing Policy were approved that it go out to consultation.  If no comments are received, the Policy will be forwarded direct to Ordinary Council for adoption. If comments are received, these will be considered by this Committee on 19^th January 2016, and any further amendments as a result of the consultation will be agreed prior to the Policy being formally adopted by the Council.

REASON FOR RECOMMENDATION

The Council must fully consult and publish its revised policy through Ordinary Council.  Therefore the compulsory consultation must take place in good time to allow for the full recommended 12 weeks and review of any responses received enabling appropriate consideration as to whether it is appropriate to alter the policy in line with those comments.

The Council must have a policy in place, which should reflect as closely as possible, the current law, Secretary of State Guidance and Government Codes of Practice as this ensures that the Council is able to consistently and effectively carry on its function as the Licensing authority.

There area number of changes and additions to the policy as these reflect the numerous changes over the last five years as the licensing of alcohol, regulated entertainment and late night refreshments under the Act has evolved. 

(As a substitutes of this Committee.  Cllrs Mrs Hubbard and Mrs Murphy did not take part in the debate or vote on this item).