How do I apply?: the
1st Appointed Day marking the start of the transition to the new licensing
regime is imminent. You have from 7th February to 7th August to submit
your applications to convert your existing PELs and justices licences
to new premises and personal licences. The application forms have
now been published and you can download your copies from our website.
The Form
A and B is used to convert and vary a premises licence, and the
individual
Form is used for personal licence applications. These forms
are the only information you need to provide.
What do I need to do?:
The process for applying to convert your new licence is complicated
and there several steps you must go through to make sure your application
is valid. Check out our Frequently
Asked Questions to guide your thorugh the process. This includes
information on plans.
What about Westminster's new licensing policy?: Westminster
Council has adopted a new licensing policy. This is counter to the
Act and Government Guidance at several points and asks applicants
to complete a series of risk assessments, report and checklists as
part of their application. Download our Readable
Summary which highlights the restrictions Westminster is proposing,
the information they want you to provide and those aspects which we
believe cannot be enforced.
How much will it cost?: whilst the Government initially promised
a low cost system, the proposed fees have been gradually increasingly
and a new multiplier has been applied to high turnover city centre
pubs and bars in response to public concern about drunkenness. The
fees payable will depend on your rateable value and we have provided
a
summary of the main points
Advising Members: we are committed to ensuring that we provide
the best possible advice and guidance to members in the run up to
the start of the new regime. We will be constantly updating our website,
introducing a new licensing reform section where you can access all
our briefing papers, policy statements, tips and advice. You can contact
us for more information if have any specific queries or questions.
We will have already held
two seminars in the run up to the start of the transitional period
to help you prepare and will be holding a further event just prior
to the start of the new regime to remind you of your new responsibilities
and help ensure that you have everything in place to trade legally.
