The Department for Business & Trade have published a new national licensing policy framework for the hospitality and leisure sectors.
The framework, which comprises of seven sections, acknowledges that licensing must, in addition to the four licensing objectives, support the broader ambitions of local authorities and councils, such as business investment and growth, high street revival, and local jobs.
The framework sets out the Government’s strategic reason for a modern and updated licensing system, intended to safeguard the public while also empowering businesses to succeed in an ever-changing and difficult commercial environment.
The framework has been developed in response to the Call for Evidence on the Licensing Policy Task Force proposals, of which responses showed a strong support for the need for a consistent and transparent licensing system. The framework outlines the Government’s desire to provide local authorities with the power and strength to promote economic growth, cultural development, public safety, and community wellbeing.
It has been acknowledged that hospitality businesses have raised concerns that disproportionate licensing conditions and restrictions stifle growth and reduce the option and desirability of the venue for the customer.
Although non-statutory, the Framework is intended to influence local licensing policy. Licensing authorities are encouraged to “have regard” to its principles and reflect them in their Statements of Licensing Policy at their next review and the Government have explicitly outlined that they are asking licensing authorities to consider the need to promote growth and deliver economic benefit in their decisions when making their decisions.
Overall, the Framework represents a notable rebalancing of licensing policy — moving away from an approach focused solely on risk mitigation towards one designed to enable innovation and investment across the sector.
The Government also intends to review the Framework six months after publication to assess its early impact and consider whether further clarification or even statutory change is required. Additional periodic reviews are expected.
A link to the full Framework is below and a further analysis of the contents will follow in due course.
National Licensing Policy Framework for the hospitality and leisure sectors – GOV.UK
