The Licensing Act introduces new arrangements for the way in which premises that sell alcohol or provide public entertainment and late night refreshment are licensed. Pubs, clubs, bars, restaurants, off-licences, stores and superstores, cinemas, theatres, village and community halls, and premises (including vehicles) selling hot food and hot drinks between 11.00pm and 5.00am will all be affected by the new arrangements.

  
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has announced that the First Appointed Day is to be the 7th February 2005. This is the date from which existing licensees can apply to Braintree District Council to convert their existing licences into new Premises Licences, Club Premises Certificates and Personal Licences and make application for variations to their existing licences.

The Second Appointed Day on which the Act comes fully into force is likely to be November 2005.

The aims of the new legislation are to:-

1. Reduce crime and disorder

2. Encourage tourism

3. Reduce alcohol abuse

4. Encourage the self-sufficiency of local communities

5. Reduce the burden of unnecessary regulation on business

This will be achieved by focusing on the four overarching Licensing Objectives which are:-

1. The prevention of crime and disorder

2. Public safety

3. The prevention of public nuisance

4. The protection of children from harm

If you would like to speak to someone about any licensing issues please contact the Licensing Section on 01376 557790 or write to:

Licensing Services Manager
Licensing Services
Braintree District Council
Causeway House
Bocking End
Braintree
Essex
CM7 9HB