Hearing success

LGS.uk has successfully represented a number of clients at formal hearings following Police, EHO or Neighbour objections. Sally Trigg licensee of The Kings Head, Great Baddow commented “The Police demanded £40,000 worth of conditions be added to my licence which might have finished off my village pub. LGS.uk skilfully presented my case at a hearing and persuaded the Council that none of the Police demands were necessary”.

Trade concerns over ADZ’s

The trade are united in their objection to the proposed Alcohol Disorder Zones (ADZ’s). Several trade associations, including the BBPA, BII, BEDA, BISL and BHA have joined forces to condemn the proposal as unworkable. The law would allow authorities to declare areas as ADZ’s and charge businesses in these areas for additional policing and clean-up costs etc. as part of the Governments Violent Crime Reduction Bill.

Access for Disabled

The long awaited amendment to BS 8300 should help licensees meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). The standard gives advice on the design of buildings to meet the needs of disabled people and is similar in content to Part M of the Building Regulations.

Planning Success

LGS.uk has successfully challenged planning authorities seeking to impose change of use requirements when making modest extensions to licensing hours and activities. The use class orders are only relevant if there is a significant change to the primary use of the premises and not simply an extension of hours or the inclusion of dancing.

Early Smoking Bans

The Publican has reported that 2 Councils (St Albans Council and Preston City Council) are demanding compulsory no smoking areas if pubs allow access for children. The Councils are claiming this is an essential part of their policy to meet the licensing objective to protect children from harm. The BBPA have asked LACORS to intervene pointing out that the guidance makes it clear that health is not an objective of the Licensing Act and that the Government specifically stated Councils could not impose such restrictions through the Licensing Act. The consultation closes on September 5 for the Governments plans for a smoking ban in premises selling food.