Issue - meetings

To receive a briefing paper.

The Committee received a report outlining plans to review the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy, the current version of which would expire in January 2014. The new Policy would need to incorporate recent legislative changes such as the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011, the Licensing Act 2003 and accompanying Secretary of State guidance issued under s182 of the Act.

Cllr Canver addressed the Committee to emphasise the importance of a thorough review of the Policy with input from both Members and members of the public. A future special meeting was planned with the relevant Responsible Authorities to encourage their participation and comments on the revised Policy.

It was agreed that a working group would be convened to take forward the review process in the acknowledgement that further discussions were required on a number of  fundamental issues relating to the Policy, such as the potential inclusion of a Cumulative Impact Policy provisions. The Chair agreed to email Committee members to seek nominations to sit on the working group.

It was intended that a special Regulatory Committee would be convened in July to approve the release of the revised Policy for public consultation. The final document incorporating responses from the consultation would then be submitted to the October Regulatory Committee meeting for approval before progressing to Full Council for adoption.

Members asked that the potential scope be explored of the Council providing a mechanism by which local residents could obtain licensing advice and guidance, for example through an independent advocate. Confirmation was provided that a similar scheme was in place in LB Westminster and Cllr Canver agreed to look into the feasibility of adopting a scheme within the borough. This could also constitute a potential future area of joint working with the Environment and Housing Scrutiny Panel.

RESOLVED

·        That the update be noted.