main content A licensing first as legislation take effect

The first two personal licences were issued today by Bromley Council as the new licensing laws came into effect. It is believed that the licences are the first to be issued anywhere in the country under the new legislation. Local businessman Ivor Andrews and fellow business partner, Louise Dyer, now hold personal licences and are in the process of opening a bar and restaurant in Greenwich. The legislation says that personal licence holders need to apply to their local council - although people running members' clubs don’t need to hold personal licences.

"We will be working hard to ensure that this transition period is as smooth as possible for everyone. We have already met with businesses who sell alcohol to introduce ourselves and answer any queries they may have about the new legislation and how it affects them. I would remind them that we are on hand to give them help, advice and information" said Paul Lehane, Bromley Council’s Licensing Manager.

Over the nine next months, the existing 700 alcohol licence holders will have to apply to the Council’s licensing team to convert their licence into a new style premises and club licence. In addition, people involved in selling alcohol in pubs, bars, restaurants and off licences will need to apply for personal licences.

"I was delighted to present the first two personal licences which is probably a first in the country. But, I would like to reassure residents that we do not anticipate major changes in opening and closing hours to pubs in our borough. We will be consulting about new licence applications we receive. Following our consultation earlier this year, we know that residents support our licensing policy and we are grateful to them for their input" said Councillor Tony Owen, Chairman of the Council’s Licensing Committee.

Premises licences will be issued on a ‘like for like’ basis but licence holders will need to apply for a new licence by 6th August 2005. Proposed changes to opening hours would be considered separately. The Council’s licensing policy assumes that although each new application will be treated on its merits, the Council would not generally expect alcohol to be sold after 11 pm. Most licensed premises across the borough are located within residential areas and extended closing hours could disturb local residents.

ENDS