Dorset Council - Licensing Policy Consultation

Overview

Licensing authorities are required by the Licensing Act 2003 to publish a Licensing Policy that they propose to apply when exercising their functions under the 2003 Act. The Statement must be published at least every five years and can be reviewed from “time to time” with any amended parts re-consulted upon.

The 2025-2031 Draft Licensing Policy is now available and is being consulted on for a period of eight weeks.

The objective of the Licensing Policy is to inform interested parties of the principles the licensing authority proposes to apply when exercising its functions under the Licensing Act 2003. The authority must have regard to the promotion of the licensing objectives as set out in the Act:

• The Prevention of Crime and Disorder
• Public Safety
• The Prevention of Public Nuisance
• The Protection of Children from Harm

Licensable activities include: 

• the retail sale of alcohol,
• the supply of alcohol in clubs,
• the provision of late-night refreshment, and.
• the provision of regulated entertainment.

The Licensing Policy aims to align with the Council’s policy priorities contained within the Council Plan 2024-29

The Statement of Licensing Policy aims to;

• Protect young people from harm
• Balance the needs of businesses and local residents
• Encourage tourism and a vibrant, diverse night time economy
• Reduce alcohol misuse
• Reduce unnecessary regulation

We would therefore welcome your feedback on the new draft policy.

If you would like a paper copy of the survey or a copy of the policy with all of the changes highlighted then please contact the Licensing Team on licensing@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or telephone 01308 838027.

Please note, any data collected follows Dorset Council's privacy policy.