Councillors kept in dark over Licence Applications

10.48.19pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 28th Sep 2005

Cllr Andrew Simpson is calling on the Borough Council to inform ward councillors about changes to licences or new applications for venues in the area they represent. The new licensing act which comes into effect in November has meant a number of premises going for longer licensing hours with only fairly minimal advertising required.

"I have found out about licence applications in my ward through eagle eyed residents spotting notices in the pub concerned or the local paper". said Andrew Simpson "In one case it was too late to voice any objections to the proposed licence extension. This is unacceptable. Councillors are informed of planning applications and should also be informed about licences"

Andrew Simpson is asking the Borough Council's Portfolio Holder responsible for licensing to follow the practice of some other councils and make sure local councillors are informed.

"How can we hope to represent the people if we are not kept informed of changes in the area we represent" he continued