LGA Governance


Agenda item

Agenda item

World Cup Licensing Extension

Minutes:

Ian Leete, Policy Adviser introduced the report to Members, outlining the expected consultation in relation to a blanket extension of licensing hours during the 2014 World Cup in June and July, due to a number of games (including England’s opening game) kicking off after 11pm in the UK.

 

Local Authorities are expecting an increase in the number of Temporary Event Notice (TEN) applications due to the late kick off of games. It was recognised that this would have a significant resource implication across local authorities.

 

However, Members agreed that there are a number of potential issues associated with extending licensing hours. In particular around domestic violence, this typically increased around the time of major sporting events. With a blanket exemption it would not be possible for the police and local authorities to identify who was opening late and therefore difficult to target resources effectively.

 

Members agreed that the key issue was that a decision to impose a blanket extension of licences during the World Cup would undermine local authorities, who can consider the local context before agreeing or refusing any extensions.

 

All Members  agreed that Whitehall should conclude the consultation quickly as the World Cup is only three months away, and depending on the outcome of the consultation this could leave local authorities with little time to make appropriate arrangements

 

Councillor Lucas asked officers to take on board the comments of Members and asked that progress is made quickly.

 

Action

 

Lead Members to push on the timeliness of the consultation and emphasise that local government could not support a blanket extension.

 

Decision

 

Members noted the issues set out in the report

 

Supporting documents: