Statement of licensing policy review

We are reviewing our alcohol, entertainment, and late-night refreshment policy. The current policy, in place since March 2019, is due for review as mandated by the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides how the council handles licensing matters and ensures compliance with the Licensing Act, promoting a balanced approach between risk management and supporting local businesses.

We are seeking input from the public and stakeholders on the proposed revisions for the 2024 to 2029 policy.

To share your feedback with us, complete our survey by Wednesday 20 December 2023.

We are reviewing our policy on:

• how we regulate alcohol
• regulated entertainment
• late-night refreshment

Our existing policy was published in March 2019, and remains in place for five years, as required by the Licensing Act 2003.

We are reviewing the statement of licensing policy to ensure that it remains current and responsive to change.

We, as the licensing authority, must prepare a statement of licensing policy under the Licensing Act 2003. The policy statement sets out our general approach to how we determine licensing matters, including applications, and how we will carry out regulatory functions in relation to the sale of alcohol, provision of regulated entertainment, and late-night refreshment in Crawley.

We consider all applications on their own merit but also ensure that operators are complying with the Licensing Act 2003 and primarily upholding the licensing objectives.

The policy has regard to the Section 182 Guidance as part of the Licensing Act 2003, balancing the potential risks associated with licensed premises and licensable activities, whilst supporting well-run premises and a prosperous economy.

The policy statement looks to provide transparency and consistency in the decision-making process and is designed to be accessible to anyone with an interest in licensing.

After the consultation closes, we will consider your responses and any other relevant information and decide on whether to make any changes to the proposed draft licensing policy statement. It will be reviewed by the Licensing Committee and ultimately considered by Full Council for adoption.

The new statement of licensing policy will be published in early 2024.

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