From 24 November 2005, the Licensing Act 2003 changed the law governing the types of licences held throughout England and Wales.
There is now a Premises Licence, a single scheme for what is known as "licensable activities", which includes the sale or supply of alcohol, the sale of hot drinks and/or food between 11pm and 5am (eat in or takeaway) and/or provision of regulated entertainment such as cinema, theatre, dancing and music.
Premises and Club Licences
If you are a business selling alcohol or providing entertainment, you must obtain a Premises Licence from the Local Authority. Qualifying clubs are required to obtain a Club Premises Certificate which authorises the supply of alcohol to club members.
Link to further information in Premises Licences, and to apply online
Link for further information on Club Premises Licences, and to apply online
Link to view current Licensing Applications (pdf - 59.1kb)
Personal Licence
If you wish to sell or authorise the sale of alcohol, you will be required to obtain a Personal Licence. Personal Licences will be granted for 10 years to persons over 18 years of age who have the relevant licensing qualification and are without a relevant criminal record.
Occasional and Temporary Events
If you wish to hold a one-off small event for less than 500 people, for example a School Fair or Charity Event, you must apply for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN). If you already hold a Personal Licence, you may apply for up to 50 TENs a year. If you do not hold a Personal Licence, you may apply for up to 5 TENs a year. The Event can last for up to 168 hours.
Link for further information on Temporary Event Notices, and to apply online
Statement of Licensing Policy and Policy Review consultation
Under the Licensing Act 2003, the Local Authority is required to publish a Statement of Licensing Policy with regards to the undertaking of its licensing functions. The Authority is required to consult with various bodies on the Policy, such as the Police, Fire Service and bodies representing residents and the trade. The Council first published its Policy in January 2005, which was reviewed tri-annually, with the current Policy taking effect in January 2011.
It has been considered necessary and appropriate to review the Policy with the aim of striking a greater balance between the needs of businesses and residents in the Epsom Town Centre area.
A copy of the draft revised Policy can be viewed and downloaded by clicking the link below:
Link to the Draft Statement of Licensing Policy (pdf - 404kb)
Views are being sought as to whether it is considered that any amendments need to be made to the draft Policy. The consulation period commenced on 1 May 2012, and closes on Friday 15 June 2012. The Policy will be considered by the Licensing Committee at a meeting on Tuesday 3 July 2012.
A copy of the existing Policy can be viewed and downloaded by clicking the link below:
Link to Statement of Licensing Policy (pdf 117kb)
Further Information
Telephone: 01372 732000
Email: contactus@epsom-ewell.gov.uk