Statement of Licensing Policy 2022 to 2027

Last Updated: 17 May 2023

Statement of Licensing Policy (PDF 559KB / 46 pages) for the period 2022 to 2027.

The statement sets out the basis on which decisions under the Licensing Act 2003 will be made. The policy strives to achieve a local balance between the commercial interests of the licensed trade and the communities they serve and affect, a balance between freedom and responsibility.

As part of the 2022 review process, many organisations and individuals with an interest in the licensing of premises were consulted. Parish clerks, representatives from public houses and people involved in the licensing trade had an opportunity to voice their opinions. The experience gained since the Licensing Act 2003 came into force and the views of the people consulted were taken into account before the revised policy was completed.

As the Licensing Authority we have a duty to promote the four statutory licensing objectives which are taken into account when considering an application. The four objectives are:

•  the prevention of crime and disorder
•  public safety
•  the prevention of public nuisance
•  the protection of children from harm