There are a number of ways you can have your say about the impact of alcohol in your local community. Here are the routes you can take to communicate with someone regarding your concerns about alcohol licensing.
- Speak to the Premises Licence Holder
In the first instance and if you feel comfortable doing so, you may talk to the premises licence holder yourself to discuss the issues you are experiencing. The premises licence holder may not be aware that they may be causing problems and discussing the issue may resolve the problem.
- Get in touch with the licensing authority and / or responsible authorities
If you do not wish to speak to the premises licence holder, seek advice from the licensing authority (local council) if you are concerned about the way a premises is being run. You can also report concerns, for example, noise and criminal activity to the relevant responsible authority (see the objectives that need to be followed). The responsible authority will then decide whether or not to take action against the premises.
- Get in touch with your local councillors
If you have concerns, for example, about noise or litter created by pubs and clubs or the number of off-licences in your local area, you can seek advice from your local councillor. Your local councillors can also assist in locating the relevant authorities that can assist you with your concerns. A councillor would also be interested to hear about a well-run business that is valued in the community. To find your councillors contact details search on your local council’s website.
- Make an official complaint
If you find that despite informal initiatives your issues are not resolved, you may proceed to file an official complaint, formally known as making a representation. You can follow the link to a Step By Step guide on how to proceed with your complaint. You may also wish to seek the advice of the alcohol licensing authority (local council) to gather additional information on filing a formal complaint.
You must submit the application in the name of an individual, but you can be represented by an elected member, faith leader, chair of the neighbourhood watch group, a community council leader, or citizens advice.
You can find the contact details and get in touch with relevant authorities on the directory.