News: Temporary event notices are changing...
Changes to licensing law
The passing of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act means changes are imminent across the licensing regime in England.
Whilst it is not known exactly when the provisions relating to licensing law will take effect, it is widely expected to be next year. We will of course keep you up to date with the date of any changes on these new pages.
These changes relate to a wide range of licensing matters and amongst the many changes which will come into force are those relating to Temporary Event Notices (TENs).
Widening the scope of objections
Unfortunately, not all of these changes look likely to improve the situation for licensees as, for example, TENs will in future be able to granted subject to conditions.
In addition, Environmental Health officers will be able to make objections in future, alongside the police who are the only body currently able to do so. This may mean licensees will need to be more careful in ensuring no noise or other nuisance is caused whilst operating under TENs or face the prospect of Environmental Health officers possibly objecting to any future TENs they submit.
Any objections which are made will also be able to relate to any of the four Licensing Objectives and not just in relation to crime and disorder as is currently the situation, meaning a much wider scope of possible objections will be able to be brought against licensees.
Welcome changes
The news is not all bad though and some of these changes will make TENs more flexible in their operation, allowing licensees greater scope in planning special events.
The maximum number of days during which TENs can be utilised at a single premises is set to increase from the current 15 days to 21 days, and this change is coupled with an increase to the maximum period of a single TEN from 96 to 168 hours.
Applications for TENs will also be able to made on shorter notice than ten working days, as is the situation at present.
So, despite the widening of the scope of possible objections, Temporary Event Notices are set to become more flexible and able to cover a wider range of events and could, should they come into force in time, prove to be a very useful tool in the run up to the London Olympic Games in 2012.
How we can help
Our extensive knowledge allows Dadds LLP Licensing Solicitors to offer you expert guidance and assistance in planning and applying for your Temporary Event Notices. Complete the free enquiry form below or call us on 01277 631 811 to find out more.
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