Licensing Act 2003
The Licensing Act 2003 received Royal assent in July 2003 and came into force in November 2005
The overall aim of the Act was to modernise and integrate six existing licensing regimes, which were previously administered by the Magistrates Courts and Local Authorities, into one system administered by Local Authorities by the creation of ‘Licensing Authorities’.
The intention is to introduce a more relaxed and flexible approach to licensing and makes a number of significant changes including the removal of the current fixed hours when alcohol may be sold.
The Act and regulations made under it, focus on promoting the four statutory Licensing Objectives, which are
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the prevention of crime and disorder
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public safety
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the prevention of public nuisance
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the protection of children from harm
Which activities are covered ? 'Licensable Activities' regulated under this Act are
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the sale or supply of alcohol by retail or on behalf of a club to, or to the order of, a member of the club
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the provision of Late Night Refreshment (11:00pm until 5:00 am)
Follow these links for more information on the Licensing Act 2003:
- Licensing Section Customer Charter (pdf, 261 KB)
- Application Guidance and Advice Sheets (pdf, 372 KB)
- Statement of Licensing Policy
- Licensing Enforcement Protoco (pdf, 68 KB)l