Agenda and minutes

There were no apologies.

To receive declarations of interest from Members.

There were no declarations of interest.

To answer any questions, if any, asked by any resident of the Borough pursuant to Standing Orders.

No questions or deputations received.

To note the comments received in response to the consultation relating to the statutory review of the Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003.

Members were reminded that the Council is required to review and publish a Statement of Licensing Policy at least every five years and the last publication was January 2016.

Due to the impact the Covid-19 pandemic had on licensing authorities and the hospitality industry, consultation was undertaken on the basis the current policy be rolled forward with any relevant representations incorporated as deemed appropriate.

RESOLVED

Members approved the updated document and recommended its ratification and adoption by Full Council on 8 December 2020.

To update Licensing Committee on the impact to date of a temporary Pavement Licensing regime under the Business & Planning Act 2020.

Members were reminded that under the Business and Planning Act, that came into effect on 22 July 2020, a temporary pavement licence was introduced to support businesses to operate safe social distancing measures following the Covid-19 pandemic. All licences could be secured until 30 September 2021, when they would expire along with the emergency provisions under the Act.

Seven applications had been received, two of which were not pursued, and five licences issued.

RESOLVED

Members noted the contents of the report.