How to influence licensing decisions

Cheltenham Borough Council will be organising a number of workshops early in the new year on how to write effective licensing representations and would like to encourage people to register their interest now.

The workshops will cover alcohol, entertainment, gambling, sex establishments and street trading licensing and will help local residents to better understand the rules that apply to licensing decisions and the role they can play in determining the outcome.   Many applications have to be granted by law, unless there are representations against them.   Equally, submitted representations have to be relevant and correct otherwise they cannot be considered.

Louis Krog, senior licensing officer, said: "It is important that local residents are aware of their right to comment on licensing applications and equally important that they know how to do so effectively.  To facilitate this, the council intends to run a number of workshops for members of the public to help them understand more the rules that apply to writing effective licensing representations."

Councillor Klara Sudbury, cabinet member for housing and safety said: "As a resident of Cheltenham, you have the right and opportunity to input and influence licensing decisions that could affect you and your local community and we are delighted to be able to offer this opportunity for residents to learn how to influence licensing decisions in the correct way."

If you are interested in attending a workshop or would like more information, please register in advance by ringing 01242 77 5200 or email licensing@cheltenham.gov.uk

For media enquiries, contact:  Annette Wight, telephone: 01242 264311 or 01242 775050, email annette.wight@cheltenham.gov.uk