Sintons helps shape the future of licensing

Sintons Leisure Services Team in conjunction with Newcastle City Council and Northumbria Police held a discussion and panel debate for alcohol licensed operators on Tuesday 16th October 2012 at Newcastle University Business School.

Presented by Sintons Licensing Partner, Sarah Smith, the forum provided an update on changes in licensing laws (including late night levies, EMROs and the Live Music Act 2012).

Stephen Savage and Councillor Henri Murison from Newcastle City Council and CI Bruce Storey from Northumbria Police outlined  their vision for the future of the City Centre, in terms of implementation of the new laws and what this means for the licensed trade.

The early indication was that the Council will consult in introducing a late night levy across the authority area. This would mean premises selling alcohol between midnight and 6am may be liable to pay a levy which would be divided between the police and the licensing authority and would be used to counter alcohol related problems in local areas.

The government thinking behind the proposal is that businesses which profit by selling alcohol in the late night economy should contribute towards some of the costs that it causes.

Attended by many of the city centre alcohol licensed operators, the forum created a lively debate with many concerns expressed which provoked thought for the future.

It was clear following the debate that operators must get involved with the consultation process early, in order to minimise the impact of the levy on their business.

Sarah Smith, Partner said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for alcohol licensed operators to ask questions about the recent changes and to gain a better understanding of what the future holds for the licensed trade in our region. It is clear interesting times lie ahead for licensed operators.”