How to make a representation, and how we take them into account when determining a licensing application.
You can write to us to object to, or support, certain licensing applications or variations. This is known formally as 'making a representation'. You can also ask that an existing licence or certificate be reviewed.
Who can comment on a licensing application?
Anyone can have a say about a licensing decision. You can also make a representation on behalf of a larger group eg a residents' or business association.
How to find existing licence holders and view current applications
Premises licences
Check the premises licence register, and the online licensing register for current applications for premises licences and club premises certificates.
Gambling licences
Check the Licensing Sub-Committee, and the online licensing register for current applications for gambling premises licences.
What you can comment on
Your representation must relate to one or more of the licensing objectives.
Alcohol licensing act 2003 objectives
- preventing crime and disorder
- public safety
- preventing public nuisance
- protecting children from harm
Gambling act 2005 objectives
- preventing crime and disorder
- gambling in a fair and open way
- protecting children from harm
What your representation should include
When submitting a representation, you should:
- include your name and address
- state clearly the reason for objection and provide evidence to show how one or more of the objectives will be affected if the application is granted eg you could give specific evidence of how noise from the premises would create a public nuisance
- include any details about how approving the application is likely to affect you directly or your business
How to make a representation
You must submit your representation to us before the consultation period ends. You can either make yur comment on the public register ,email us or send your representation to us in the post (details below).
Contact us if you have any questions about making a representation,
What happens next?
Deciding if the comment can be considered
We'll check if your representation can be considered (ie does it relate to the licensing objectives), and let you know if it's not accepted as relevant, or if we consider it to be 'frivolous' or 'vexatious' eg because it's directly related to business competition.
If your representation is accepted
We'll send a copy to the applicant and usually arrange a public hearing with the Licensing Sub-Committee.
Your representation will be included in the report published on our website. Information such as email addresses and telephone numbers will be removed from these documents, however your name and postal address will be included.
If you have a specific reason why you require your details to be withheld, please contact us.
Licensing hearing
The applicant and anyone who made a representation (or their representative), will be invited to the hearing.
At the hearing the Licensing Sub-Committee will decide whether to grant the application in full or in part, and under what conditions.
In some cases a hearing won't be required. All parties will need to agree to this and the Licensing Sub-Committee will make a decision based on the documents supplied.
Appealing a decision
If you disagree with the Licensing Sub-Committee's decision, you can appeal to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days.