Licensing Policy
Under the Licensing Act 2003, the responsibility transfered
from the Magistrates Courts to Thanet Council from 7 February 2005.
The Act also means a more flexible system of licensing
entertainment in public places and the sale of hot food at
takeaways. Fixed licensing hours will effectively be removed
and children will be allowed into licenced premises, if
accompanied by an adult.
The new Act means that:
1. fixed licensing hours will effectively be
removed
2. licences will be simplified and children
will be allowed into licensed premises if accompanied by an
adult
3. the leisure industry in the area could be
affected, a late night or 24 hour economy may develop
4. questions may be raised over the need for
late night public transport
5. for the first time you will be able to ask
the council to review a licensed premises if you are disturbed by
their activities
The Council, after consultation, has published a licensing
policy statement, setting out how the Council intends to make
decisions under the new Act.
Download the Licensing policy
statement (pdf 291kb).
The policy aims to:
- Prevent crime and disorder
- Prevent public nuisance
- Protect public safety
- Protect children from harm
The policy takes into account the views of local
people, businesses and licensed traders.