Criteria
Under the Licensing Act 2003, any person is able to make written representation in relation to certain types of applications. However, for a representation to be considered relevant, it must address the likely effect the granting of the application will have on the promotion of one or more of the following licensing objectives:
- The Prevention of Crime and Disorder
- Public Safety
- The Prevention of Public Nuisance
- The Protection of Children from Harm
Representations must relate to the impact of licensable activities carried on from the premises on those objectives listed above. By way of an illustrative example: "...a representation from a local business person about the commercial damage caused by competition from a new licensed premises would not be relevant. On the other hand, a representation by a business person that nuisance caused by new premises would deter customers from entering the local area, and the steps proposed by the applicant to prevent that nuisance were inadequate, would be relevant."
Please also be aware that the Licensing Authority will not consider representations that are frivolous or vexatious. The former category refers to representations that display a lack of seriousness in purpose or nature. The latter relates to representations which appear to be intended to cause aggravation or annoyance, whether to a competitor or other person, without reasonable cause of justification.
Any person who is aggrieved by a rejection of their representation on either of the above grounds may lodge a complaint via the Council's complaints procedure.