LICENCING LAWS
Few local businesses will have missed the new licensing law rules. Many licensed premises now can stay open for 24 hours a day. The new regime came into force on 24 November 2005. Have you applied for a new licence? Even if you do not want extended hours a new application was necessary. The provisions are contained in the Licensing Act 2003.
Paul Seath an associate in our Licensing Team says:
"Changes included tougher closure powers for the police to deal with problem premises, increased penalties for selling alcohol to under 18s, ending fixed closing times, eradicating 11pm and 2am disorder flashpoints. They also gave more power to local residents by:
- Enabling them to ask for a review of an existing licence at any time.
- Enabling them to challenge any new licence application.
- Enabling them to hold local councillors to account for licensing decisions at the ballot box."
Call Paul Seath on 0117 9290451 or email pseath@metcalfes.co.uk for more information.
This press release summarises the law on issues which we believe may be of interest to your business. It is not a comprehensive review of the subjects and accordingly is published without responsibility for loss occasioned to any person(s) acting or refraining from action as a result of information published