Have your say on licensing

Published July 28, 2010.

Members of the public, businesses and organisations are being invited to have their say on Durham County Council’s statement of licensing policy.

Durham County Council is the licensing authority, under the Licensing Act 2003, and is responsible for the preparation, publishing, promotion and regular review, of the policy.

The policy affects all activities and premises subject to licensing under the above act within the county, and covers areas including the sale and supply of alcohol in pubs and clubs and the provision of regulated entertainment.

It’s part of the council’s duty to carry out a public consultation exercise which is now under way and will last until October 1.

The council’s licensing manager, Craig Rudman, said:” The Licensing Act requires us to carry out our responsibilities with the core principles of preventing crime, disorder and nuisance, protecting public safety and protecting children from harm.

“As a new unitary this will be the first time we have had the opportunity to make any amendments and we have tried to make sure the changes made, make the policy clear on a range of issues including cheap drinks promotions.”

Cabinet member for strategic environment Cllr Bob Young said: “It’s really important that we continue to encourage safe and appropriate levels of drinking in our communities and responsible management throughout our licensed premisis.”

Information on this consultation is available in the ’Have Your Say’ section of Durham County Council website, www.durham.gov.uk. Alternatively, the public can request a hard copy of information by contacting Garry Keay, Licensing Team Leader on 01388 816 166 ext. 4679 or email licensing@durham.gov.uk

Comments should be made in writing to the email address above or can be sent to Garry Keay, Licensing Team Leader, Durham County Council, Green Lane, Spennymoor, DL16 6JQ.

Ends.