Equalities Impact Assessments
Housing
Licensing Policy
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Licensing Policy PDF 34K
This strategy reveals the processes and results of the impact assessment carried out on the Licensing Policy.
We currently issue and deal with licensing applications for areas including:
- Public entertainment
- Night café
- Indoor sports
- Special treatments
- Pet shops
- Cinemas
Under the New Licensing Act 2003 we have the responsibility for alcohol licences; these were previously the responsibility of the Magistrates Courts.
Because of our increase in responsibility our work loads have increased drastically and involved extra financial commitment from our budget as there was no extra funding from Central Government.
Additional costs have come about from more staff, new IT equipment being purchased and training for staff and the newly formed Licensing Board.
The Act stated that each local authority had to draft, consult and adopt a Licensing Policy demonstrating how licensing applications would be dealt with.
The policy was assessed to determine if it should be rated high, medium or of low relevance.
As the policy was relevant to all or most of the General Duty and found to have an impact on the community with some groups affected differently it was deemed to have a high relevance.
Recommendations
Under the Licensing Act 2003 it is required that the Policy is reviewed after 3 years. However, it is necessary for the policy to be constantly monitored to ensure it fits in with all of our other polices and any changes in legislation.
Each time the policy is reviewed comprehensive consultation will be carried out.
