The Committee of the Licensing Authority of Breckland Council convened on 12 June 2024 to discuss updates on licensing activities, enforcement checks, and collaborative efforts with partner organisations. The meeting highlighted the significant work done by the Licensing Team in the past quarter, including inspections and joint investigations.

Licensing Team Update

Craig Fowler, the Environmental Health & Licensing Manager, provided an update on the performance and activities of the Licensing Team. The team processed a substantial number of Temporary Event Notices, new premises licenses, and annual fees in the last quarter. Detailed figures were provided in Appendix A.

The team increased enforcement checks, conducting 86 inspections under the Licensing Act 2003 and 18 inspections under the Gambling Act 2005 over the past 12 months. These acts regulate the sale of alcohol, entertainment, and late-night refreshment, and gambling activities, respectively.

Collaborative Efforts

The Licensing Team has been working closely with partner organisations, including the Police and Trading Standards, to address issues related to vapes, tobacco, crime, and disorder. Although the sale of vapes and tobacco is not a licensable activity, these products are often sold in premises licensed by Breckland Council. Keith Mumford, the Food Health & Safety Officer, presented on the collaborative efforts, which have been recognised at the Breckland Award Ceremony.

The team and its partners conduct safety checks at large events such as the Old Buckenham Air Show and Snetterton Race Circuit. Joint investigations are ongoing to tackle illegal vapes and illicit tobacco, which could lead to premises closures and licensing reviews.

Acknowledgements

Councillor Marion Chapman-Allen, the Chairman, commended the Licensing Team for their impressive number of visits and enforcement checks. The report was noted without further discussion.

The meeting concluded with no additional training requirements or feedback on recent panel meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for 12 June 2024 at 10 am in the Anglia Room.