URL: https://meetings.cotswold.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=521

Decision Maker: Planning and Licensing Committee, Council

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: To seek approval to implement a fee for primate licensing applications

Content: The purpose of the report was to seek the Council’s approval to implement fees for primate licensing applications, with the proposed fees having been approved by the Planning and Licensing Committee at its meeting on 14 January 2026.   Councillor Andrea Pellegram, Cabinet Member for Environment and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and outlined the Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2024, made under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The regulations established a licensing scheme requiring private primate keepers to meet zoo-level welfare standards.   It was noted that the regulations had come into force on 6 April 2025 and required existing and prospective primate keepers to hold a license, with inspections undertaken prior to the determination of an application and at least once during the license period. The scheme applied to specified primate species, as set out in the regulations.   Members were advised that the regulations allowed local authorities to charge fees, and the report set out the proposed fees for applications, renewals, and variations.   The Chair invited questions of clarification. Members asked how many primates were currently kept within the district and whether the proposals would generate a material income. It was confirmed that the matter had previously been considered by the Planning and Licensing Committee and that officers were not aware of any primates currently being kept within the district.   Councillor Tom Stowe seconded the recommendations and spoke in support of the proposals, noting that while the item focused on licensing fees, it also reflected wider animal welfare responsibilities. Concerns regarding the keeping of primates in captivity were acknowledged, and it was noted that the licensing regime would provide a degree of protection by enabling the Council to monitor private keeping and welfare standards.   Members were advised that the proposed fees were based on full cost recovery, aligned with other licensing fees, and subject to annual review. It was emphasised that the fees were not intended to generate income but to ensure that inspection and enforcement costs were met by applicants rather than taxpayers. The Chair then moved to the debate. During debate, Members expressed support for the proposals and highlighted broader animal welfare considerations. The importance of effective monitoring was emphasised, and officers were thanked for their work. Reference was made to wider scientific recognition of sentience, and support was expressed for calls to restrict or prohibit private primate ownership, with suggestions that the issue be raised with local Members of Parliament.   Members also queried enforcement arrangements. It was explained that the Council retained responsibility for enforcement and would work with external organisations, including the RSPCA and specialist rescue centres, where license conditions were not met. This could include supporting the rehoming of animals where necessary.   The Chair then moved to the vote on the resolution proposed by Councillor Andrea Pellegram and seconded by Councillor Tom Stowe.   Voting record 31 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstentions.  

Date of Decision: January 21, 2026