The focus on licensed premises by responsible authorities has
undoubtedly heightened since the advent of the 2003 Act. Police
officers, trading standards officers and environmental health
officers have been proactive throughout the country.
Local authorities also have their
own licensing enforcement officers who regularly inspect premises
to ensure compliance with conditions endorsed on the premises
licence.
Inspections could lead to licence
holders being reported for offences under a vast array of
legislation, not just the Licensing Act 2003. This can lead to
criminal proceedings being pursued and/or proceedings for a review
of the premises licence. The Licensing Committee can impose
further conditions, remove or restrict any of the licensable
activities or limit the hours during which they can take
place. It can suspend the licence or revoke it or remove the
designated premises supervisor.
Our Business Regulatory team has
the specialist expertise to deal with any criminal investigation in
the context of running a licensed premises and in conjunction with
any licence review. Other firms specialising in licensing do
not have this strength in depth.
Seeking legal advice at the earliest opportunity is crucial as
it can often lead to a successful conclusion at the outset.
Click on the link for a free 30-minute consultation with an
expert licensing
solicitor.
