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Licensing Act 2003
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The Licensing Act 2003 establishes a single integrated scheme for licensing premises that are used for the supply of alcohol, to provide regulated entertainment, or to provide late night refreshment.

Permission to carry on some or all of these licensable activities are now contained in a single licence. In addition individuals are required to hold “Personal Licenses” to supervise the sale of alcohol and all premises where alcohol is sold are also required to have a “Designated Premises Supervisor”.

The Act transfers alcohol licensing from licensing justices to Local Authorities. This brings six existing licensing regimes (alcohol, public entertainment, cinemas, theatres, late night refreshment and night cafes) under the responsibility of a single authority, which cuts down on red tape.

The date for converting existing licences into premises licences has now passed and every business or club that sells hot food after 11pm, serves alcohol or puts on public entertainment that does not have a new licence on 24th November 2005 will face prosecution if they continue to trade.

On Friday 25th November 2005, The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) issued Guidance for Interested Parties, such as local residents and businesses about:

  • How to make Representations.
  • How to appeal a Licensing Authority decision.
  • How to seek a Review of a licence.

The above guidance notes, along with advice for applicants, residents, licensing authorities and police is available on the DCMS website:
http://www.culture.gov.uk.

These are not statutory guidance notes and will therefore be kept under review in the light of experience.

Further information regarding the Licensing Act 2003, how to apply for a personal licence, premises licence, club premises certificates and temporary event notices, along with downloadable electronic application forms can be found at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport Website:
http:/www.culture.gov.uk/what_we_do/Alcohol_entertainment/licensing_appforms.htm.

Or from your Local Authority:

Stafford Borough Council

East Staffordshire Borough Council

South Staffordshire Council

Staffordshire County Council

Stoke on Trent City Council

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council

Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council

Lichfield District Council

Tamworth Borough Council

Cannock Chase Council

Guidance on how to complete the Operating Schedule with regard to fire safety as part of an application for a premises licence is contained in the following Guidance Note “Licensing Act Guidance”