Preface

This Statement of Licensing Policy is the third that has been offered for consultation in accordance with the Licensing Act 2003. When approved by the Council, it will have effect for 3 years from 7 January 2008.

The second revision took place following 10 months operation of the new licensing system, to reflect the outcome of a judicial review that particularly criticised the prescriptive nature of some policies by removing or amending those parts of Rochford's policy that were considered to be overly prescriptive whilst retaining the fullest possible guidance and assistance.

In reviewing this policy statement, the Licensing Authority has taken account of new revised guidance proposed by the Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media & Sport. It should be noted that at the time of drafting this policy the revised guidance had not been approved by Parliament. It is therefore possible that, if that guidance is changed from the version upon which this policy was based, some changes will result to the content of this policy.

It should also be noted that the Head of Environmental Services has delegated authority to make inconsequential changes to the policy, e.g. to reflect change in the Council's political management structure, change of title, licensing legislation or statutory guidance, etc.

In revising this policy, new sections have been inserted dealing with Interested Parties, the role of Designated Premises Supervisors and Personal Licence-holders, making applications for new or varied licences or certificates and applying for reviews.

Significant changes to the existing policy are contained within the following paragraphs: -

1.24 - 1.25; 1.29 - 1.34; 1.39 - 1.46; 1.49 - 1.51; 1.77 - 1.82; 3.8

This revised Statement of Licensing Policy is offered for consultation between 1 July 2007 and 30 September 2007 to Responsible Authorities, Interested Parties and the public at large. Notice of the consultation process has been advertised on the Council's website and by placing copies at the Council's offices in Rochford and Rayleigh and at public libraries throughout the district.

Formal responses to the process may be made in writing by sending them to: -

or by e-mail to licensing@rochford.gov.uk

to arrive no later than 1 October 2007.