Issue - meetings

(Chairman of the Licensing Committee) To consider and adopt the attached Statement of Licensing Policy, previously agreed by the Licensing Committee.

The Chairman of the Licensing Committee, Cllr R Morgan, presented a report on the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy under the Gambling Act 2005.

Cllr R Morgan informed the Council that the Gambling Act 2005 required all licensing authorities to prepare and publish a statement of licensing principles that they proposed to apply in exercising their functions under the Act, commonly known as a Policy Statement. The Policy had to be reviewed every 3 years and where reviewed and changes proposed, licensing authorities had to consult on any revision, prior to the Statement being re-published. The Policy Statement assisted in ensuring that an appropriate balance was maintained between the interests of those wishing to provide and take part in legal gambling, and those who might be affected by such activities.

Cllr Morgan stated that the current policy had been agreed by the Licensing Committee and approved by the Council on 4 April 2023 following minor amendments to reflect the latest guidance and to update the area profile in line with the Census of 2021. Given the recent review, consultation, and approval of the policy in 2023, no changes to the policy had been deemed necessary. Therefore, the only change proposed, was the date on which the policy would take effect, i.e. January 2025.

            Resolved:

(1)        That the revised Statement of Licensing Policy be approved and adopted by the Council from January 2025.