Licensing Act 2003
The Act is underpinned by four licensing objectives which are the basis upon which all applications will be considered as well as the grounds upon which any challenges or objections are made:
- the prevention of crime and disorder;
- public safety;
- the prevention of public nuisance; and
- the protection of children from harm.
The Act means that a person can attain a personal licence which will allow them to sell alcohol from any licensed premises, and the premises will be licensed separately according to set criteria.
Flexibility on Hours – Businesses can apply for anything up to 24 hour 7 days a week licences. The local authority will only have the power to refuse or change the licensing hours you apply for if they receive an objection.
Presumption to Grant Applications – All applications that comply with the requirements and do not receive an objection within an appointed timescale will be granted.
Licence Reviews – Objections can be raised against a licence at any time and these have to be considered by the local authority. Firstly by the licensing officers to ensure the objection is in line with the objectives and is not repetitive, vexatious or frivolous and then by a hearing for Licensing Committee.