Concerns over licensed premises

Views are being sought on whether to introduce a special policy regarding the number of licensed premises in Durham City.

Durham County Council has launched a consultation this week to address concerns raised about the number and type of licensed premises in the city centre and whether this is causing crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

It follows a recent review of the council’s licensing policy and seeks to assess the impact of venues licensed to sell alcohol for consumption on and off the premises. Consideration will also be given to the impact of late-night refreshment providers, which are not licensed to sell alcohol, such as takeaway food shops.

The consultation, which runs until Friday, November 8, will seek views on whether special licensing policy should be introduced for the city centre. Respondents will be asked to provide answers to questions around crime and disorder, public safety, public nuisance and the protection of children from harm. These are the four objectives considered when granting licenses for premises such as pubs, night-clubs, takeaways and off-licenses.

As well as seeking views from those who live and work in the city, the council will work closely with key organisations such as Durham Constabulary and County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, to collect evidence including crime, disorder and ASB statistics. Durham’s city centre manager and council officers with responsibility for environmental health and community safety will also be consulted.

Visit www.durham.gov. uk/consultation