Licensing in the 21st Century   The Licensing Act 2003 (which came into force on 24 November 2005) establishes one scheme for licensing premises which are to be used for the sale by retail of alcohol, the supply of alcohol by clubs, providing regulated entertainment and providing late night refreshment between 11pm and 5 am (the 'licensable activities').

Licences are now issued by licensing authorities.  Licensable activities can only be carried out with a premises licence, a temporary event notice or a club premises certificate. It is an offence to carry on any of the licensable activities without a licence.  The Licensing Act 2003 also provides a right of appeal to the magistrates court for those who wish to oppose a licence issued by a licensing authority.   We can advise you on the following:-  If you are a prospective licensee we can advise you and assist you with your licensing application and complete the forms on your behalf. If you are an interested party and have a right to appeal.  If you are purchasing a licensed premises which already has a premises licence in force we can assist you with the transfer application. (needs a link to the commercial property page). If you already have a premises licence and wish to amend your operating schedule we can assist you with the variation application.  Any sale of alcohol must be authorised by a "designated premises supervisor" who must have a personal licence.  We can assist you with a personal licence application. If you are going to play sound recordings at licensed premises we can advise you on PPL (Phonographic Performance Limited) licences and PRS (Performing Right Society) licences. We can also assist you with making an application for a gaming permit.