The Licensing Committee of Havant Borough Council met on 25 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the review of street trading consent fees and the review of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing fees. The committee approved the proposed fees for public consultation and authorised the necessary statutory advertisements.

Review of Street Trading Consent Fees

The Licensing and Animal Welfare Team Leader presented a report on the review of street trading consent fees. Key points raised included:

• The scale of charges has been adjusted to account for salary increases.
• The published unit costs were initially incorrect, but a correct version will be published before the consultation begins.
• Predicted fees are based on the borough's single street trader, with figures recommended by the finance manager.
• The council only recovers costs through these fees and does not make a profit.

Councillor Weeks proposed, and Councillor Milne seconded, the resolution to approve the proposed fees as outlined in Appendix A (as amended) for public consultation, authorise the necessary statutory advertisement, and recommend the new fees for adoption by Full Council if no representations are received during the consultation. The resolution was passed.

Review of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Fees

The Licensing and Animal Welfare Team Leader also introduced a report on the review of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing fees. Clarifications included:

• A 100% increase in fees indicates a new charge that was not previously applied.
• The proposed fees are based on cost recovery and do not generate additional income for the council.
• Any review of Hackney carriage fares would consider the fees that drivers pay for their licences.

Councillor Sceal proposed, and Councillor Wade seconded, the resolution to approve the proposed fees as outlined in Appendix A for public consultation, authorise the necessary statutory advertisement, and recommend the new fees for adoption by Full Council if no representations are received during the consultation. The resolution was passed.

The meeting commenced at 5.30 pm and concluded at 5.48 pm.