If you are an existing licensee but are moving to other premises or are intending to change the scope of your licence we should be pleased to help by advising you and preparing any necessary documentation. If you are facing objections or an application for a review of your licence we are here to represent you before the Licensing Authority or the Magistrates Court.
Existing licensees should be aware of the effect the new system will have on their current licence:
From the second appointed day, which is currently anticipated to be 7th November 2005, Local Authorities will take over control of all licensable activities namely:
- The sale of alcohol over 0.5% in strength in any quantity
- The supply of alcohol by or on behalf of a Club
- The provision of regulated entertainment
- The provision of late night refreshment
Local Authorities must
carry out their functions with a view to promoting the licensing objectives namely:
- Prevention of crime
- Public Safety
- Prevention of public nuisance
- Protection of children from harm
Conversion of existing licences
You must apply to convert your existing licence/s between now and 6th August 2005. If you fail to do so you will cease to be licensed from the second appointed day (anticipated to be 7th November 2005)
If you do not wish to change the terms of your existing licence, you will be entitled to convert it automatically subject to a limited right of objection by the police. If you are asking for changes to your existing licence terms, you will have to apply for a variation, which is a much more complicated procedure.
Even if you are applying for a straightforward conversion of your existing licence, you may face difficulties in completing the required operating schedule. Your operating schedule is a vital document because you must include in it every licensable activity you wish to undertake on your premises. You must also set out in your operating schedule how you are going to further the licensing
objectives.
Finally, if you are intending to sell alcohol, you will also need to apply for personal licences as, under the new law, every sale of alcohol has to be made or authorised by a holder of a personal licence.
|
