URL: https://democracy.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=829

Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: To approve for adoption the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy 2026 - 2031.

Content: To approve for adoption the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy 2026 - 2031. The Council approved the adoption the statement of licensing policy and cumulative impact assessment. Under the Licensing Act 2003 the Statement of Licensing Policy must be reviewed every five years. The Policy has been updated with the latest legislative changes using the guidance issued by the Home Office in November 2025.   The Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA), which forms part of the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy has been reviewed at the same time. Staffordshire Police has requested that the cumulative impact assessment area be expanded to cover the city centre, rather than just Bird Street and Market Street.   In addition to the statutory consultees, the following were also consulted: Responsible Authorities, District Councillors, District & County Council groups including Community Safety, Health & Safety, Environmental Protection, Trading Standards, Highways, District Councillors, Responsible Bodies Group, Town Centres Manager, Licensing solicitors and agents and breweries.   This policy was presented to and approved by the Regulatory and Licensing Committee, prior to a 4 week consultation. It was subsequently taken back to the Regulatory and Licensing Committee following concerns around the CIA extension proposals.   At the meeting on 26 February 2026, the Regulatory and Licensing Committee recommended that the Council adopts the reviewed statement of licensing policy (APPENDIX A) and maintains, not extend, the current CIA area. There is a legal requirement on the council to review and publish its statement of licensing policy every 5 years. There is not an alternative to this position.   Regarding the cumulative impact assessment, one alternative would be to expand the area as per the Police request, or remove the current CIA and have none.

Date of Decision: April 14, 2026