The Licensing Committee of Redbridge Council is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 11 June 2026. The meeting's agenda includes the establishment of a Licensing Sub-Committee and an update on the Licensing Service's activities.

Establishment of the Licensing Sub-Committee

The committee is set to consider the formal establishment of a Licensing Sub-Committee for the 2026-27 Municipal Year. This follows appointments made at the Annual Council meeting on 20 May 2026. The report outlines proposals for the Sub-Committee's composition, suggesting it may comprise three members of the Licensing Committee. Operational procedures for convening meetings are also to be agreed, including consulting all Licensing Committee members on availability and selecting three members proportionally. A key operational detail is that members will not be able to serve on the Sub-Committee if the premises in question is situated within their ward. The report references Section 9 of the Licensing Act 2003, which governs the establishment of such sub-committees. The report also highlights that the work of the Licensing Sub-Committee will contribute to safeguarding children and young people.

Licensing Service Update

An update on the Licensing Service's activities between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026 is scheduled for discussion. This report will provide data on the number of applications received under the Licensing Act 2003, which covers activities such as the supply of alcohol, regulated entertainment, and late-night refreshment. It details the volume of applications for new premises, variations, licence reviews, and personal licences, as well as Temporary Event Notices (TENs). The report also outlines the outcomes of Licensing Sub-Committee decisions on these applications, including grants with conditions and rejections.

Furthermore, the update will cover other licensing functions, including those under the London Local Authorities Act 1990, the Business and Planning Act 2020, and the Gambling Act 2005. Enforcement activities undertaken by the Licensing Service will also be detailed, including investigations, compliance inspections, and joint enforcement activities with partner agencies.

Significant upcoming changes and new legislation are also highlighted. These include the restructuring of the Met Police Licensing Teams, which has resulted in a reduction of police resources available for licensing matters. The report also addresses proposed London Licensing Reforms, which could grant the Mayor of London new powers, including setting a licensing policy for Greater London and having 'call in' powers on licence applications of 'strategic importance'. The recent Royal Assent of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is also discussed, which will introduce a licensing scheme for the retail sale of tobacco, vapes, and nicotine products, likely to be administered by existing Licensing Authorities. Finally, the report touches upon upcoming policy work, including the refreshing of the Cumulative Impact Assessment and the development of a new Statement of Gambling Policy.