Local authorities are to get the power to impose blanket bans on the sale of alcohol after 3am in entire streets or city centres affected by alcohol-related anti-social behaviour and disorder. The move was confirmed today by Licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe, as he announced that the new powers would be brought in through the Crime and Security Bill, currently before Parliament.
Announced by the Prime Minister in September 2009, the new rules would mean that, where disorder or public nuisance cannot be attributed to particular individual premises, local authorities would be able to limit late opening across an entire area.
The ban will operate between 3am and 6am in respect of all premises selling alcohol, including pubs, bars, clubs, supermarkets and convenience stores. It could be imposed all week or only on particular days of the week. Councils would need to show that the restriction was necessary to prevent crime and disorder or public nuisance, or to promote public safety.
When a council proposes to use its new power, it will first invite views from everyone affected, including local residents, the police and licence holders and if necessary, it will hold a public hearing before making a final decision.
Mr Sutcliffe said:
“The Licensing Act has done a great deal to make it easier for local residents and councils to deal with alcohol-related nuisance and disorder, and the number of 24 hour licences remains low. But we recognise that some concerns still exist about anti social behaviour, and are determined to give councils the powers they need to act.
“This new power will help local authorities and the police make life better for local residents. It will also help ensure that licensees take their obligation to run responsible businesses more seriously.”
Department for Culture, Media And Sport