The Licensing Committee of the City of London Council met on Wednesday 8 July 2026 to discuss and approve the draft Statement of Licensing Policy for consultation. The committee also received updates on the Environment Department's business plan, revenue outturn, and delegated decisions regarding premises licences.

Statutory Review of Statement of Licensing Policy – Draft for Consultation

The committee discussed the draft Statement of Licensing Policy (SoLP) for 2027, which is undergoing its statutory five-year review. The revised policy aims to ensure it remains current, lawful, and fit for purpose, taking into account legislative changes such as Martyn's Law, the National Licensing Policy Framework, and the Mayor of London's Strategic Licensing Pilot. The draft policy also reflects the City Corporation's Corporate Plan 2024-2029, City Plan 2040, and strategies like Destination City and Noise.

The committee resolved to authorise officers to carry out a statutory consultation on the revised SoLP for a minimum of eight weeks. The outcome of this consultation and the final draft of the SoLP will be considered at the committee's meeting on 19 October 2026. Members provided feedback on the draft, suggesting improvements to the structure and clarity of certain sections, and requested that the Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Sub Committee be given sight of the consultation. The committee also noted the importance of engaging with stakeholders, including Hospitality Livery Companies.

Update on Mayor of London's New Strategic Licensing Powers

An update was provided on the Mayor of London's new strategic licensing powers, with officers noting that the Mayor of London's Strategic Licensing Policy had been published. Secondary legislation detailing the Mayor's call-in powers and the definition of applications of strategic importance was still being developed and was expected to be finalised later in the year. The City Corporation's SoLP review had taken these new powers into account where possible. Officers indicated that the potential impact on workload was unclear but there were no immediate concerns. The committee requested that strategic licensing powers be a standing agenda item for future meetings.

Environment Department High-Level Business Plan 2025/26: Year-End Progress Report

Members received a report summarising the progress made by the Licensing Service in delivering its priority objectives for 2025/26. The report highlighted the continued delivery of services within the context of Destination City, supporting businesses while balancing the needs of all stakeholders. Progress included the enhancement of the online interactive map of licensed premises, an increase in Safety Thirst Accredited venues, and proactive preparations for Martyn's Law. The committee noted the report.

Revenue Outturn 2025/26

A report was presented comparing the revenue outturn for services overseen by the Licensing Committee in 2025/26 with the budget for the year. The report indicated an overall underspending of £64,000. The committee noted the report.

Delegated Decisions of the Executive Director Environment Pertaining to Premises Licences

Members received a report detailing premises licences and variations granted by the Licensing Service between 1 March 2026 and 31 May 2026. The report also included a summary of enforcement actions taken during the same period and data from the 'traffic light' risk scheme. The committee noted the report.

Minutes of the Licensing (Hearing) Sub-Committee

The public minutes of a licensing hearing held on 14 May 2026 concerning the premises Sense, 171-176 Aldersgate Street, EC1A 4HT, were received. The Chairman summarised the hearing, noting that conditions were added to address concerns regarding a balcony area and that officers had advised objectors that the premises becoming a takeaway venue was a planning consideration.

Appointment of Sub-Committee Chairmen

The committee appointed Joanna Abeyie to chair Licensing (Hearing) Sub Committee meetings for the ensuing year, filling vacancies left following the previous meeting.

The meeting also included the approval of public minutes from the previous meeting held on 27 April 2026, with a minor correction regarding attendance. There were no declarations of interest made by members. The committee also resolved to exclude the public for certain non-public items of business.