Licensing Act 2003

Licensing Act 2003

The Licensing Act 2003 is a single system for licensing premises that are used for the sale or supply of alcohol, providing regulated entertainment or late night refreshment.

The types of licensable activities are:-

• the retail sale of alcohol including via the internet and mail order
• the supply of alcohol to members of a registered club
• the supply of hot food and/or drink between 11pm and 5am
• the provision of regulated entertainment, such as:-
• plays
• films
• indoor sporting events
• boxing or wrestling
• live music
• recorded music
• dancing
• anything similar to the above

The activities listed above can only be provided in accordance with one of the following:-

• premises licence 
• club premises certificate 
• temporary event notice (TEN)

Anyone over the age of 18 who wishes to sell alcohol or authorise the sale of alcohol at a premises where a premises licence is in force requires a personal licence.

Statement of Licensing Policy

The Licensing Act 2003 requires that the Council must publish a Statement of Licensing Policy, which much must be reviewed regularly, that sets out the policies the Council will generally apply to promote the four licensing objectives when making a decision on an application made in accordance with the Act.  The licensing objectives are:-

• the prevention of crime and disorder
• the prevention of public nuisance
• the protection of children from harm
• public safety

Enforcement

Licensing enforcement officers carry out routine inspections of licensed premises; based on risk assessment criteria, to ensure that conditions are being complied with and safe working practices are being maintained.  If you have any concerns regarding a licensed premise, please contact the Licensing Team.

Proxy Purchasing of Alcohol

Blaenau Gwent Licensing and Trading Standards Officers continue to patrol the County Borough jointly with Gwent Police in an attempt to reduce anti-social behaviour and licensing offences.

The purchase of alcohol on behalf of persons under 18 is a criminal offence.