Views sought on licensing

RESIDENTS are being given the chance to have a say on the official document the council uses when licensing pubs, bars and other licensed operations in West Lancashire.

The authority is inviting people and businesses to comment on its draft licensing policy.

This document provides all interested parties and the public with guidance on the approach the council will take under the Licensing Act 2003.

Until October 31, the council wants views on its draft policy to ensure it reflects the opinions of residents and all businesses – not just licensed premises – within the borough.

The document covers the sale and supply of alcohol in pubs and clubs, late night refreshment and the provision of regulated entertainment.

The council is proposing to change the policy to ensure it reflects current legislation and guidance, as well as the licensing issues that are evident across the borough.

The draft policy can be found at www.westlancs. gov.uk/licensing.

Cllr Kevin Wright, portfolio holder for health and community safety said: “To ensure our licensing policy remains a practical working document, it’s essential that we get as much feedback from local people and business as possible.

“We are proposing to make changes to the licence review process to outline the options available, which includes setting out explicit expectations for licence breaches and/or criminal activity.

“We are also proposing to provide a clearer definition of public nuisance, which will help the authority to consider a wider context when examining contested applications.”

You can submit your views via email licensing. enquiries@westlancs.gov. uk or in writing to West Lancashire Borough Council Licensing Service, Robert Hodge Centre, Stanley Way, Skelmersdale, WN8 8EE.