This meeting of the Licensing Committee was scheduled to include a review of its activities during the previous year, as well as receiving an update on proposed changes to its procedures going forward. The committee was also scheduled to consider updates to the fees it charges for licenses, with a view to these changes taking effect from the beginning of August.

Annual Licensing Report

The committee was scheduled to receive a report on the Licensing Service's activities during the previous year. This report details the areas of responsibility of the Licensing Service. These include alcohol, entertainment, late night refreshment, taxi and private hire vehicle licensing and enforcement, as well as a range of other licensing categories.

The report breaks down the number of licenses issued in the year to 31 March 2024, and describes the council's enforcement activities and initiatives, which it says are intended to support both residents and businesses.

The report notes that 2006 requests for service were received in this period ranging from requests for advice and information, assistance with applications, complaints and enquiries to setting up a new business. The demand for service has also increased by 33% compared to 2022/23.

Typically, there are approximately 3350 active licences in operation across the borough that require regular inspection to ensure compliance; this is supported through investigation of complaints and requests for service.

The report highlights the Licensing Safety and Vulnerability initiative (LSAVI)¹ and the council's focus on tackling Violence Against Women and Girls. It also notes the partnership statement that was signed by neighbouring councils in January 2024. This agreement seeks to establish a consistent approach to taxi licensing and sets out clear commitments to ensure public safety is at the heart of decision making and enforcement.

The report proposes a number of areas of focus for 2024/25, in particular the review of the Gambling Policy which is due its 3-year review, and the council's Taxi Policy, which will be updated to reflect the revised Taxi and Private Hire best practice guidance issued by the Department for Transport.

Pavement Licence Fees

The committee was scheduled to discuss the fees charged for Pavement Licences².

The report notes that the Business and Planning Act 2020 set a cap of £100 for a pavement licence fee, but that this legislation has been superseded by the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023 which allows local authorities to set their own fees. The report states that it is seeking approval to set the fee for a new pavement licence at £400 and for a renewal at £250.

It goes on to say:

In support of businesses and our local centres, Licensing Committee is asked to approve the proposed fee for a new pavement licence at £400 and renewal at £250.

Terms of Reference 2024/25 - Licensing Committee

The committee was scheduled to review its Terms of Reference, which are a document that sets out the committee's purpose, responsibilities, and how it operates. The report on this topic was also scheduled to be considered by the council's Senior Management Team³ on 16 July 2024.

The report notes that:

There is one minor change suggested to the Terms of Reference (shown in red on Appendix A) to provide clarity around the process for appointment of a Chair for the Committee.

It goes on to say that this change notes that the Chair is appointed by Full Council, but sets out that a Vice-Chair may be appointed by a majority decision of the Committee.