The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider a range of matters, including a proposed public procession, a review of taxi fares, and an application for a street trader's licence. The committee will also address applications for taxi driver licences and the potential suspension of existing licences.

Notice of Proposal to Hold a Procession

A significant item on the agenda is the consideration of a notice submitted by the Dunnottar Martyrs Memorial Loyal Orange Lodge Number 1685 for a public procession on Saturday 27 June 2026. The proposed route starts at Baird Park and finishes at the road junction leading to the old Stonehaven radio building. The report pack details the legal framework governing public processions under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, including the factors the Sub-Committee must consider, such as public safety, public order, damage to property, and disruption to the community.

Police Scotland has lodged representations, noting that while there is no specific intelligence indicating the applicant will cause public disorder, there is potential for significant community concerns and counter-protests. The previous notification for a procession by the same lodge in 2024 was prohibited due to public safety concerns arising from community tensions. The report also highlights the potential impact on policing resources, with a significant operation anticipated.

Numerous public representations have been received, with the vast majority expressing concern about the procession. Ward councillors have also submitted comments, raising issues around potential disruption, the burden on the police, and the lack of historical connection to the area for such marches. The Sub-Committee will need to determine whether to make no order, impose conditions, or prohibit the procession.

Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 - Taxi Fare Scale Review

The Sub-Committee will review the taxi fare scale, a statutory obligation that occurs every 18 months. Consultation with representatives of the taxi trade has concluded, with 35 responses received. The majority of respondents indicated that no changes were required to the current scale, citing the cost of living crisis and existing high fares as reasons. However, a significant proportion of respondents suggested increases to the standard, late-night, and festive season rates to cover rising operating costs and licensing fees. The report details proposed changes to charging distances, rates, waiting periods, booking fees, and the unacceptable mess charge, along with the mean average of proposed increases. The Sub-Committee is asked to determine the proposed fare scale for public consultation.

Application for Renewal of a Street Trader's Licence

An application for the renewal of a street trader's licence by Mr Peter Croome for a food van selling ice cream, drinks, and snacks is to be considered. Officers have referred the application to the Sub-Committee due to a lack of clarity regarding the proposed trading locations and operating arrangements. Mr Croome has listed numerous towns and villages across Aberdeenshire where he wishes to trade daily between 10:00 and 23:00. Statutory consultees, including Police Scotland, Planning Service, and Environmental Health, have responded with no objections or comments. However, Roads & Infrastructure services noted the lack of specific street locations, and Landscape Services stated that simply naming villages is insufficient if trading is proposed in parks or open spaces. The Sub-Committee must determine if the application provides sufficient detail to allow for a decision, or if consideration should be deferred for further information.

Applications for Taxi Driver's Licences

The Sub-Committee will consider two applications for taxi driver's licences, both of which have representations from the Chief Constable. One application (Case 1124) has been deferred from a previous meeting due to insufficient evidence for a determination. The other application (Case 1125) will be considered alongside written submissions from the applicant. The Sub-Committee will need to determine whether the applicants are fit and proper persons to hold a licence.

Additionally, the Sub-Committee will consider the suspension of a taxi driver's licence and vehicle licence (Case 1128), which will be discussed in private session due to the likely disclosure of confidential information.