Statement of Licensing Policy 2021

This Statement of Licensing Policy has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Licensing Act 2003 (the Act) and having regard to Guidance issued by the Home Office under Section 182 of the Act. The licensing authority is Brighton & Hove City Council. The purpose of this statement is to promote the licensing objectives and set out a general approach to making licensing decisions. This policy will inform the approach to be taken when deciding applications and imposing conditions when relevant representations are received.

The Policy recognises the public health role in local authorities and the legal framework for local government after the introduction of The Health and Social Care Act 2012. Local authorities will be responsible amongst other things for alcohol and drug misuse services.

The city receives 9.5 million tourism day trips and 1.5 million staying visitors per year. The cultural and tourism offer in Brighton & Hove is crucial to the ongoing economic success of the city; it brings both money and jobs. The city has the highest level of current arts engagement outside London and the seventh highest out of 150 in the country at 61.2%. Brighton & Hove is known for its colourful and interesting arts and creative industries which attract tourism and new businesses. The sale and consumption of alcohol contributes greatly to the city’s economy and tourism.

However, alcohol-related death rates are above the national average in Brighton & Hove. The city experiences local problems and local trends such as pre- and post loading, binge drinking and street drinking created by cheap alcohol and fierce, localised price competition, particularly between off-licence stores and supermarkets.

The Alcohol Programme Board (APB), a partnership of licensee representatives and colleagues from health, licensing, the police, universities and voluntary sector oversees the city’s public health approach to minimising the harms from alcohol.

Brighton & Hove has a created a Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) and adjacent Special Stress Area (SSA), designed to restrict the amount of licensable premises in the city centre and promote good practices to minimise the adverse impact from alcohol-use. The Council have also adopted a matrix approach to decision making to encourage the right type of alcohol establishment across the city. Enforcement policies focus on reducing irresponsible promotions and underage sales.

In addition, the APB also supports various initiatives: such as the council-led “Sensible on Strength” scheme to reduce the availability of cheap super strength beers and ciders; working with student organisations to raise the awareness of alcohol harm; and night-time economy safeguarding initiatives that protect the vulnerable and raise awareness of sexual exploitation.

1.1

This Statement of Licensing Policy has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Licensing Act 2003 (the Act) and having regard to Guidance issued by the Home Office under Section 182 of the act. This policy takes effect from 4 February 2021. The licensing authority is Brighton & Hove City Council. The purpose of this statement is to promote the licensing objectives and set out a general approach to making licensing decisions. The discretion of the licensing authority in relation to applications under the act is only engaged if ‘relevant representations’ are made by other persons or responsible authorities. This policy will inform the approach to be taken when deciding applications and imposing conditions when relevant representations are received. It is also intended as a guide for applicants as to what to include in their operating schedules, always recognising that if no representations are received, the application must be granted. The licensing authority must carry out its functions with a view to promoting the licensing objectives and this policy is framed around those objectives. Each application will be given individual consideration on its merit. The scope of this policy covers the following:

• Retail sales of alcohol;
• The supply of alcohol by or on behalf of a club, or to the order of, a member of the club; The provision of regulated entertainment;
• The provision of late night refreshment.

1.2

The licensing objectives are:

1. the prevention of crime and disorder;
2. public safety;
3. the prevention of public nuisance; and
4. the protection of children from harm.

1.3 Scope

1.3.1 Licensing is about regulating licensable activities on licensed premises, by qualifying clubs and at temporary events. Any conditions attached to various authorisations will be focused on matters which are within the control of individual licensees and others with relevant authorisations; i.e. the premises and its vicinity. Each application will be given individual consideration on its merit. Nothing in this policy shall undermine the right of any individual to apply under the terms of the act for a variety of permissions and to have any such application considered on its individual merits. Similarly, nothing in this policy shall override the right of any person to make representations on an application or seek a review of a licence or certificate where provision has been made for them to do so in the act.

1.4 Consultation

1.4.1 Before revising or determining policy for any five-year period, the licensing authority must consult:

1. the chief officer of police for the licensing authority’s area;
2. the fire and rescue authority for that area;
3. the Director of Public Health
4. such persons as the licensing authority considers to be representative of holders of premises licences issued by that authority;
5. such persons as the licensing authority considers to be representative of holders of club premises certificates issued by the authority;
6. such persons as the licensing authority considers to be representative of holders of personal licences issued by that authority; and
7. such other persons as the licensing authority considers to be representative of businesses and residents in its area.

1.5 Partnership

1.5.1 The Policy recognises the public health role in local authorities and the legal framework for local government after the introduction of The Health and Social Care Act 2012. Local authorities are responsible amongst other things for commissioning alcohol and drug misuse treatment and prevention services.

1.5.2 Local leadership for public health is at the heart of the new public health system. Unitary authorities have responsibilities to improve the health of their populations, backed by a ring-fenced grant and a specialist public health team, led by the Director of Public Health. Unitary authorities are supported in this by the expertise within Environmental Health, Trading Standards and Licensing.

1.5.3 Local authorities should embed public health functions into all their activities including its duty as licensing authority, tailoring local solutions to local problems, and using all the levers at their disposal to improve health and reduce inequalities. They will create a 21st century local public health system, based on localism, democratic accountability and evidence.

1.5.4 Supporting local political leadership in improving health is the duty of the director of public health and their team. The Director of Public Health is the lead officer in the local authority for health, and a statutory chief officer. The Regulatory Services Manager will act as principal licensing officer.

1.5.5 They champion health across the whole of the authority’s business, promoting healthier lifestyles to promote better health and ensure threats to health are addressed.

1.5.6 The policy recognises the need to balance economic prosperity with community protection. Good regulation at a local level provides fair trading conditions. This creates a fair trading environment, discourages irresponsible practices and promotes community well-being. Local regulation is attuned to supporting the local economy and local businesses. Partnership between responsible authorities reduces conflict between agencies and targets resources.

1.5.7 The licensing authority encourages partnership working with other authorities and agencies. The Licensing Strategy Group, Business Crime Reduction Partnership, Pub and Club Watch, Door Supervisors Business Forum and similar schemes, for instance with Home Office approval, will be encouraged to share information and facilitate exclusion of troublemakers.

1.6 Local features

1.6.1 The local visitor economy is characterised by three sectors: conferences, leisure and English language education. In 2018 the city welcomed 9.5 million tourism day trips and 1.5 million staying visitor, this translated to just under 5 million bed nights used in the City for that year. Tourism generates £850m of direct income for local businesses and supports in excess of 21,000 jobs which equates to approximately 16% of the total number of employed in jobs in Brighton & Hove.

1.7 Culture and Tourism

1.7.1 Licensing policy supports entrepreneurial activity, promoting the city’s businesses, supporting growth of creative industries sector, extending the business improvement district. The cultural and tourism offer in Brighton & Hove is crucial to the ongoing economic success of the city; it brings both money and jobs. This range of work also provides solutions to some of the problems of inequality in the city.

1.7.2 VisitBrighton, the council’s tourism department, has developed and implemented The Brighton & Hove Visitor Economy Strategy 2018-2023 as one of its guiding principles it recognises the value of all visitors to the city and continues, alongside important work on ‘target leisure markets’ to improve the visitor experience for everyone.

1.8 Arts

1.8.1 Brighton & Hove has taken a leading role in the national consortium, the Cultural Cities Network. The city’s cultural offer has grown through new festivals, venues and organisations developing in or moving to the city.

1.8.2 The city has the highest level of current arts engagement outside London and the seventh highest out of 150 in the country at 61.2%. Brighton & Hove is known for its colourful and interesting arts and creative industries which attract tourism and new businesses. About one in five businesses and 10% of jobs are in the arts or creative industries.

1.8.3 The city currently hosts around 60 festivals each year including the largest arts festival in England, the Brighton Festival and its Fringe, which contributes annually £20 million to our economy

1.9 The Planning Context

1.9.1 Planning, building control and licensing will be properly separated to avoid duplication and inefficiency. Granting of licences will not relieve applicants of the need to apply for planning permission or building control consent and there is an expectation that these issues will have been explored before licensing applications are submitted. Applicants are recommended to obtain correct planning consents prior to applying for a licence to avoid potentially inoperative licences.

1.9.2 Where appropriate, matters for consideration in licensing applications will not duplicate matters considered as part of any planning application. Licensing decisions will take into account any relevant planning decisions either by the Planning Committee, planning officers or following appeals against decisions taken by that committee and will not normally cut across such decisions.

1.9.3 Where appropriate, when considering planning applications within the above policy framework, planning conditions can be attached to permissions to safeguard amenity and mitigate against cumulative impact.

1.10 Delegations

For convenience, the national scheme of delegation for determinations is set out below.

1.10.1 The professional development and competence of licensing councillors will be provided and maintained to support the need to act as a professional licensing authority, meeting lawful standards of good administrative decision making

1.11 Human Rights

1.11.1 The Human Rights Act 1998 incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights and makes it unlawful for a local authority to act in a way that is incompatible with a Convention right. The licensing authority will have particular regard to the following relevant provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights:-

• Article 6 that in the determination of civil rights and obligations everyone is entitled to a fair and public hearing within a reasonable time by an independent and impartial tribunal established by law.
• Article 8 that everyone has the right to respect for private and family life and his home.
• Article 1 of the First Protocol that everyone is entitled to the peaceful enjoyment of his possessions (including for example possession of a licence).

2.1 Public Health Perspective

2.1.1 Where a local authority’s Director of Public Health exercises its functions as a responsible authority, it should have sufficient knowledge of the licensing policy and health issues to ensure it is able to fulfil those functions. If the authority wishes to make representations, the DPH will decide how best to gather and coordinate evidence from other bodies which exercise health functions in the area, such as emergency departments and ambulance services. Health bodies may hold information which other responsible authorities do not, but which would assist a licensing authority in exercising its functions. This information may be used by the health body to make representations in its own right or to support representations by other responsible authorities, such as the police. Such representations can potentially be made on the grounds of all four licensing objectives.

2.1.2 Public Health England and the Local Government Association recognise that the Statement of Licensing Policy provides an important opportunity to incorporate relevant local public health concerns within the wider policy context of the local licensing authority and that as a responsible authority, the Director of Public Health has a key role in identifying and interpreting health data and evidence. Although there have been improvements in some alcohol related health issues alcohol still has a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of local people. The Statement of Licensing Policy operates in this context and decisions about licensing need to be taken to protect the local population, including families and children, from the many harms that alcohol can cause.

2.1.3 In 2017/18 there were 4,416 hospital admissions episodes for a broad definition of alcohol-related conditions in Brighton & Hove, a rate of 1,820 per 100,000 population. In recent years the Brighton & Hove rate has fallen below the rate for England Although for alcohol specific conditions the Brighton & Hove rate of 697 per 100,000 was greater than the national rate of 570 per 100,000,the gap between the two has narrowed considerably over the last ten years.

2.1.4 Central Brighton and particularly the West Street area have been identified as a violent crime hotspot. Through effective coordination of relevant strategies and policy areas (e.g. licensing, policing and public safety), the council will seek to improve safety by encouraging a more balanced range of complementary evening and night-time economy uses which appeal to a wide range of age and social groups and managing existing late night uses within identified parts of central Brighton. Local work to reduce violent crime is coordinated through the Local Public Service Agreement / Violent Crime Action Plan. In addition, a ‘Cumulative Impact Zone’ within central Brighton has been adopted by the Council and grants greater powers to control the number of licensed premises in the city centre.

Brighton & Hove scores significantly worse than the England average for a range of indicators that profile alcohol related harm. Of the indicators produced by Public Health England, Brighton & Hove does significantly worse than England for many of them including:

• Alcohol-Specific Mortality
• Alcohol-related mortality
• Alcohol specific hospital admissions – under 18s
• Alcohol specific hospital admissions
• Adults binge drink
• Adults drinking over 14 units per week
• Dependent drinkers

2.1.5 An annual report entitled ‘Public Health Framework for assessing Alcohol licensing’ is produced by the Public Health Intelligence team. It contains ward by ward analysis of crime and disorder data and health data and as such is a valuable tool in assessing the potential impact of new licences within a community. The Director of Public Health may use this information to inform a representation relating to an individual application. This document is available on our website.

2.1.6 From 1st April 2020 the substance misuse recovery service for Brighton and Hove has been provided by Change, Grow, Live (CGL). CGL is a large health and social care charity successfully providing drug and alcohol services in many areas across the UK including East and West Sussex. The recovery service is delivered by an integrated team of doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, recovery coordinators, recovery champions, peer mentors and volunteers. Some aspects of the service are subcontracted to community pharmacy and local specialist voluntary sector partners Oasis Project and Cascade Creative Recovery. The service works collaboratively with a range of NHS and voluntary sector partners across the City to improve outcomes for those affected by drugs or alcohol.

2.2 Alcohol Programme Board and Sensible on Strength Campaign

2.2.1 The Alcohol Programme Board (APB) includes health commissioners and NHS/voluntary sector providers, the Council, University student reps, police, licensees, retailers and probation services. The APB is concerned about the availability of alcohol, in particular, local problems such as pre-loading, binge drinking and street drinking created by cheap alcohol and fierce, localised price competition, particularly between off-licence stores and supermarkets.

2.2.2 Over recent years problems associated with street drinking have been experienced across the city but particularly by the Level, Lewes Road, Norfolk Square and New Road. There are many support services in place to deal with this and the drinkers themselves. In November 2013 the Licensing Authority launched the ‘Sensible on Strength’ scheme to reduce the availability of cheap super-strength beers and ciders. Off licences voluntarily sign up not to sell cheap super-strength beers and ciders over 6% ABV and operate good practice measures (see 3.5.3), for which they receive an accreditation as a responsible retailer. This has been a considerable success and we have received positive feedback including from businesses, alcohol treatment centres and health professionals, where 80% of the high profile street drinkers have moved to lower ABV and more clients are engaging with rehab treatment centres, as well as breaking up hot spot drinking areas. This is an ongoing scheme that is regularly reviewed.

2.2.3 Through achieving this change, the ultimate aim is to reduce alcohol related harm and anti-social behaviour, and to move vulnerable drinkers onto weaker alcohol as experience shows that if this can be achieved, the level of deterioration in health is dramatically slowed and there is more likelihood that they will take the step to abstinence and long-term sobriety. Public health is not a licensing objective but reducing high alcohol by volume drinks from the off licence trade should benefit alcohol related morbidity and mortality.

2.2.4 Out of a total of 286 off licences in Brighton and Hove over 70% have joined the scheme (205), with a further 49 stopped selling but not joined the scheme.

3.1 Cumulative impact

3.1.1 The licensing authority may receive representations from either a responsible authority or other persons that the premises will give rise to a negative cumulative impact on one or more of the licensing objectives. This should not, however, be confused with ‘need’ which relates more to the commercial demand for a particular type of premises. The issue of ‘need’ is therefore a matter for the market to decide and can, in some circumstances, be a matter for planning consideration; need therefore does not form part of this licensing policy statement.

3.1.2 Special Policy - Cumulative Impact is defined as the potential impact upon the promotion of the licensing objectives of a significant number of licensed premises concentrated in one area.

3.1.3 The licensing authority, after careful consideration, has determined that the concentration of licensed premises in an area of the city centre is causing problems of crime and disorder and public nuisance, and that therefore an approach to ‘Cumulative Impact’ is necessary as part of its statement of licensing policy. The first Special Policy incorporating a Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) and Special Stress Areas (SSA’s) was adopted in March 2008. Since that date, the licensing authority has kept the CIZ and SSA’s under review. On 15 December 2011 Full Council resolved to expand the CIZ and the special stress area, covering 1.5% of the administrative area of Brighton & Hove City Council. On 20th November 2014 Licensing Committee resolved to confirm the current CIZ and SSA as defined in the current Statement of Licensing Policy. On the 29th November 2018 Licensing Committee resolved to expand the SSA into Central Hove. It is now proposed to expand the SSA into Preston Road and Beaconsfield Road. The licensing authority has published a Cumulative Impact Assessment which can be found at Appendix E.

3.1.4 This special policy will refer to a Cumulative Impact Zone (“the CIZ”) in the Brighton city centre, a detailed plan of which is shown below.

3.1.5 The Cumulative Impact Zone comprises the area bounded by and including: the north side of Western Road, Brighton from its intersection with the west side of Holland Road to the junction with the west side of Dyke Road at its eastern end; from there, north-east to the junction of the north side of Air Street with the west side of Queens Road and then northward to the north-west corner of Surrey Street junction with Queens Road; thence along the north side of Trafalgar Street eastwards to its junction with York Place and continuing south-east across to Grand Parade, then south to the junction of Edward Street; along the north side of Edward Street to the east side of its junction with Egremont Place and southward along the eastern sides of Upper Rock Gardens and Lower Rock Gardens; southward to the mean water mark and following the mean water line westward to a point due south of the west boundary of Holland Road; northward to that point and along the west side of Holland Road to its northwest boundary and then diagonally across Western Road to its intersection with the west side of Holland Road.

3.1.6 The special policy will only be overridden in exceptional circumstances. The effect of this special policy is that applications for new premises licences or club premises certificates within the area, or variations which are likely to add to the existing Cumulative Impact, will be refused following relevant representations. This presumption can be rebutted by the applicant if they can show that their application will have no negative Cumulative Impact.

3.1.7 This special policy also applies to all new premises licences and club premises certificates, for example pubs, restaurants and take-away establishments. Off licences also come within this policy as they can contribute to problems of street drinking, proxy purchasing, dispersal issues, preloading and excessive drinking and related disorder.

3.1.8 The presumption of refusal does not relieve responsible authorities or other persons of the need to make a relevant representation. If there are no representations, the licensing authority must grant the application in terms consistent with the operating schedule submitted.

3.1.9 Furthermore, this special policy is not absolute. Upon receipt of a relevant representation, the licensing authority will always consider the circumstances of each case and whether there are exceptional circumstances to justify departing from its special policy in the light of the individual circumstances of the case. If an application is unlikely to add to the cumulative impact of the area, it may be granted. The impact can be expected to be different for premises with different styles and characteristics. For example, while a large nightclub or high capacity public house might add to problems of cumulative impact, a small restaurant, theatre or live music venue (where alcohol is not the primary activity) may be considered exceptional circumstances. The fact that a premises will be/is exceptionally well managed with a well qualified applicant, or that there are no residential premises nearby, will not be considered exceptional.

3.1.10 If the licensing authority decides that an application should be refused, it will still need to show that the grant of the application would undermine the promotion of one of the licensing objectives and that conditions would be ineffective in preventing the problems involved.

3.2 Special Stress Area

3.2.1 The map below details the area of the city centre which borders the Cumulative Impact zone at 3.1.3 and which is deemed an area of special concern in terms of the levels of crime and disorder and public nuisance experienced within it. The area recommended for further monitoring and detailed guidance within the Special Policy comprise the following as pictured below delineated in purple:

The Special Stress Area - an area bounded by and including: The west side of Hove Street/Sackville Road, northwards to the intersection with the north side of Blatchington Road, along north side of Blatchington Road and Eaton Road, southwards at the junction onto the east side of Palmeira Avenue and then eastwards at the junction onto the north side of Landsdowne Road; eastwards to the junction with Furze Hill, along the north side Furze Hill to its end and then due east along the north side of Victoria Road to its junction with Montpelier Road (west side), north to where Montpelier Road joins Vernon Terrace then north to Seven Dials; north west along the west side of Dyke Road until the junction with the Old Shoreham Road, then East along the north side of Old Shoreham Road, continuing on the north end of New England Road, north west at Preston Circus at the junction of New England Road and Preston Road along the west side of Preston Road until the junction with Stanford Avenue then and north east along the north side of Stanford Avenue until the junction with Beaconsfield Road, south along the east side of Beaconsfield Road until the junction at Preston Circus and Viaduct Road, eastwards along the north side of Viaduct Road, then at the junction with Ditchling Road, North East along the north side of Upper Lewes Road until the junction with Lewes Road; south along the Lewes Road to junction with Hartington Road, along the north side of Hartington Road until the junction with St. Helen’s Road, south into the north side of May Road, eastwards until its junction with Freshfield Road (east side), then south into Upper Bedford Street, into Bedford Street to the mean water mark south of Bedford Street, then due west until the mean water mark south of Lower Rock Gardens; North on Upper Rock gardens, to the north side of Eastern Road, west along Eastern Road and Edward Street until Grand Parade, north along the Eastern side of Grand Parade to the junction of York Place and Trafalgar Street, West along the Northern boundary of Trafalgar Street, up to and including Surrey Street and then South along the Western boundary of Queens Road to the junction with Air Street, West along the north side of Air Street, South-west to the junction of Western Road Brighton, then West along the North side of Western Road Brighton, South along the West side of Holland Road to the mean water mark south of Kingsway and Kingsway Esplanade as far as the west side of Hove Street/ Sackville Road.

3.2.2 This Special Stress Area (SSA) is of concern to the licensing authority because of the relatively high levels of crime and disorder and nuisance experienced within it. The area will be kept under review.

3.2.3 New and varied applications for premises and club premises certificates within the SSA will not be subject to the presumption of refusal, but operators will be expected to pay special attention when drawing up their operating schedules and to make positive proposals to ensure that their operation will not add to the problems faced in these areas. Appendix A of the SoLP sets out a list of potential measures the licensing authority considers may be appropriate. These may be more or less appropriate depending upon the style of operation applied for.

3.2.4 On receipt of any application in the SSA, where a relevant representation has been made, the licensing authority will scrutinise the application carefully and will look at the measures proposed in the operating schedules and compare them to the measures set out in Appendix A, Licensing Best Practice Measures. Where discretion has been engaged, those applications which fall short may be refused or conditions applied to comply with policy measures.

3.2.5 The Licensing Authority will keep the Cumulative Impact Zone and Special Stress Area under review. Should the authority find that problems of crime and disorder or nuisance are not improving, or are worsening, the Special Policy will be reviewed.

3.3 The Matrix Approach

The Licensing Authority will support:

3.3.1 Diversity of premises: ensures that there is a mix of the different types of licensed premises and attracts a more diverse range of customers from different age groups, different communities and with different attitudes to alcohol consumption. It gives potential for positively changing the ambience of the city or an area of it. This will have a positive effect in reducing people’s fear of crime and in increasing the number of evening visitors to the city centre. The Community Safety Strategy recognises that too many single uses in a confined area and patrons turning out onto the streets at the same time may create opportunities for violent crime and public disorder and therefore supports: mixed use venues encouraging a wider age balance.

3.3.2 A “matrix” approach to licensing decisions has been adopted and is set out below. It provides a framework of what the licensing authority would like to see within its area and gives an indication of the likelihood of success or otherwise to investor and businesses making applications.

Matrix approach for licensing decisions in a Statement of Licensing Policy (times relates to licensable activities)

Notes on matrix

Subject to the following notes, the policy, as represented in the matrix, will be strictly adhered to:

1. Each application will be considered on individual merit
2. Applications within the CIZ are subject to the special policy on cumulative impact at para 3.1, and those within the special stress area to the special stress policy considerations at para 3.2.
3. Departure from the matrix policy is expected only in exceptional circumstances
4. Exceptional circumstances will not include quality of management or size of venue except where explicitly stated in policy matrix.
5. Exceptional circumstances may include: consultation with and meeting requirements of responsible authorities, an appropriate corporate social responsibility policy, community contribution to offset impact (such as financial contribution to infrastructure), community support, alcohol sale ancillary to business activity (demonstrable to responsible authorities and licensing authority, for instance by licence condition allowing authorised officers access to sales accounts).
6. The following licensing activities are encouraged and valued by the licensing authority: outdoor regulated entertainment, community based street parties, members clubs, traditional pubs outside the city centre and non-alcohol led licensable activities, particularly within city centre.
7. Other Areas; consideration will be given to the nature of the area and location in relation to any application. In a residential area for example the concerns of local residents will be relevant when considering applications for off-licences, pubs or cafes, especially if there is evidence of anti-social behaviour, street drinking or underage drinking. Earlier closing times may be appropriate. Regard will be had to the Public Health Framework for assessing alcohol licensing on our website www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/licensingact.
8. In an area where there are already several existing off-licences or where the premises is situated within a parade with another off licence and where representations are received about negative cumulative impact on the licensing objectives of a further premises, the application may be refused on these grounds or restrictions placed on the terminal hour to reflect opening hours of other shops.
9. Outdoor events will be supported where arranged through the council’s event planning process. Generally, regulated entertainment in the open air including tents and marquees should have a maximum closure hour of 2300. Earlier hours may be imposed in sensitive open spaces or near residential areas. The licensing authority will have regard to Noise Council guidance.
10. Non-alcohol led category does not include “alcohol in shared workplaces”. It is recommended that sale of alcohol in shared workspaces should have a terminal hour of no later than10pm. For further advice and guidance on “alcohol in shared workplaces” please see paragraph 3.3.4-3.3.6.

3.3.3 Cafes - the licensing authority may be prepared to look favourably upon an application for the grant of a licence, subject to the following conditions that will prevent the premises becoming a public house.

• The sale of intoxicating liquor and other beverages shall be waiter/waitress service for consumption by persons seated at tables.
• Substantial food shall be available at all times. The licensing authority shall judge each case on its own merits but as a general rule, a bowl of crisps, nuts, or olives does not constitute substantial food.

3.3.3 Restaurants - the licensing authority may be prepared to look favourably upon an application for the grant of a licence, subject to the following restaurant condition.

• Intoxicating liquor shall not be supplied or sold on the premises otherwise than to persons taking table meals there and for the consumption by such a person as an ancillary to their meal. There will be no vertical drinking.
• Restaurants with outside service - the licensing authority will also consider applications from restaurants that request to serve alcohol to areas adjacent to or immediately outside their premises. In addition to the above conditions for cafes, the licensing authority will require evidence that the applicants have an agreement with the local authority to use the area as defined on a plan provided. The following condition may also apply:
• The sale and supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises shall be restricted to an area licensed by the Local Authority for use of the public highway as shown on the plan deposited and such area shall be defined by a physical barrier acceptable to the licensing authority.

3.3.4 Alcohol in shared workplaces - for the purpose of this Policy, a shared workplace or shared workspace can be defined by being a building that has been converted into office space, which is operated overall by one company that rents workspace to many different entrepreneurs and small businesses. Its general offering is of hot-desk working, meeting spaces, single or team desk hire and/or private office space, etc.

3.3.5 Licensing Guidance, issued under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003, states that each application must be considered on its own merits. While the council’s Statement of Licensing Policy (SoLP) does provide some guidance within its matrix approach on terminal times for licensable activities in pubs, cafes and restaurants, etc., it does not provide specific guidance for premises that could be defined as shared workplaces. The SoLP does refer to non-alcohol led premises in its Matrix Approach table; however, this definition refers to premises where the primary activity involves regulated entertainment rather than a shared workplaces.

3.3.6 It is recognised that there is a demand for flexible workspace across the UK, particularly in Brighton & Hove, where there is a high proportion of start-ups and one of the UK’s largest homeworker population. Where alcohol is supplied to “members” a premises licence is likely to be required. Whilst there is no evidence to suggest that Local Authorities have encountered issues with these licences, it’s important to acknowledge the potential negative impact alcohol can have on the workplace and to individuals. It will be important to restrict public access to such premises and to ensure that the licensed area on the premises is clearly defined in order to prevent consumption of alcohol throughout a large office premises. Therefore, in order to promote the licensing objectives, the Licensing Authority or applicant may consider the conditions set out in Appendix A for shared workspaces.

3.4 Night-time Economy Safeguarding Initiatives

The licensing authority continue to support safeguarding initiatives such as the Beach Patrol Quad bike, safe space and street pastors. The Community Safety Partnership Board continues to oversee the Community Safety Strategy and Safety in the Night Time Economy Action Plan as part of their remit. The action plan has been updated and recently the updated strategic assessment has been completed. In addition, the University of Sussex operates a “Good Night Owl” scheme which includes 40 volunteers and is currently funded by the Police Community Safety Fund. Licensed premises are being encouraged to use the “Ask 4 Angela” initiative.

3.4.1 Operation Marble (Sussex Police)

Due to the large concentration of licensed premises and night clubs in the centre of Brighton, a high proportion of the Division’s violent crime and serious sexual offences are committed within a relatively small area. The Division receives a large influx of visitors to the city centre at weekends. Many of these people attend the pubs and night-clubs during night time hours and as a result an enhanced policing operation is provided, called Op Marble. Traditionally this ran from 2100hrs through to 0400hrs on a Friday and Saturday night but since a review in 2017 has run from 20:00 to 06:00 between 1st May and 30th September. This was in response to pressures from the Night Time Economy as pubs and clubs remained open later and increases in crimes in the earlier hours of the morning. The emphasis of Op Marble is a highly visible presence of officers deployed on foot as well as focus on regularly updated hot spots to help reduce the risk of violent crimes.

In addition to the standard Friday and Saturday night, there are a number of standalone operations such as Bank Holidays, New Year’s Eve, Halloween and Pride. In the run up to Christmas, additional resources are at times deployed during the end of week to monitor Christmas Parties.

Op Marble covers an area between Preston Street to the West – The Level to the North – Kemptown to the East and the seafront between West Pier and Concorde 2 to the South. This covers the majority of the Cumulative Impact Zone defined in this policy at 3.1 and is regularly under review to ensure that limited Police resources are being used to their optimum.

3.4.2 Doorstaff Briefing

In association with BCRP – Business Crime Reduction Partnership – Police attend a weekly Friday night doorstaff briefing at Pryzm. Covered are persons of interest and share information on any events that might impact the city during that weekend – music events, football etc. Weekly meeting is held between Police and BCRP. The previous weekend is reviewed and plan for the weekend ahead and any future events. Premises of concern are also discussed.

3.4.3 Vulnerability training

Training delivered by Sussex Police to staff working within the night time economy to provide them with knowledge of vulnerability and ensure they understand their responsibilities and duty of care to vulnerable people including actions that must be taken to reduce identified risk. Training will include:

Ask for Angela

An initiative for persons that are on dates and they are feeling uneasy and need a safe way of leaving. The individual can approach a member of bar staff and ask for Angela and the staff will know this person needs some help getting out of a situation

they don’t feel safe or comfortable in. This could be calling them a taxi or a friend of family member to come and collect them.

Op Bobcat

How to identify a possible sexual predator within the night time economy. What kind of behaviour to look out for. What to do when you feel someone could be out to cause sexual harm to other individuals.

Partner Agencies Initiatives

3.4.4 Safe Space

YMCA Safe Space, run by the YMCA DownsLink Group, on West Street runs throughout the year on Fridays and Saturdays (23.30-04.00Hrs) from its base in St Pauls Church, West Street. The project provides a safe place for users of the night time economy who are rendered more vulnerable due to alcohol and/or drug use, or through physical injury or emotional distress. Safe Space regularly provides emotional support to distressed people, including delivering suicide prevention interventions and safety planning (through the ASIST model). First Aid is provided by EMS Ltd, with emotional and practical support from the YMCA team. Dependent on funding, the YMCA can also provide a mobile outreach team to operate along the seafront, providing an immediate response to vulnerable people, and where safe to do so taking people to St Pauls Church. Mobile teams also operate on New Year’s Eve in the Kemp Town and East Street areas. Safe space also has a positive impact in reducing the need for police and medical attendance.

The Licensing Authority supports initiatives such as the YMCA’s sexual exploitation project, YMCA WiSE, which amongst its work, increases awareness of sexual and criminal exploitation in the night time economy through the offer of training to the NTE workforce and through awareness campaigns.

3.4.5 Beach Patrol

Quad bike(s) patrolling the beach between 23:00-05:00 Friday and Saturday nights by SIA qualified staff. Equipped with first aid kits, thermal blankets, defibrillator and night-safe radio. Visual presence has reduced crime on the beach including sexual assaults. Educates persons of the dangers of going into the sea and has actively got people out of the sea and back on to the safety of the beach.

Brighton Beach Patrol (BBP) started in May 2015 and is operated by volunteers. The service is currently joint funded by Resolve Security Solutions Ltd and the Laines Brewery Company. BBP are in the process of applying for charitable status. The service utilises a quad bike and SIA security staff to patrol the beach between the Piers protecting the vulnerable from potential drownings, assaults, intoxication and safeguarding matters. BBP operate every weekend and operate on additional days for high risk events and bank holidays. BBP provide weekly reports to key stakeholders, including the police, council and coastguard.

3.4.6 Street Pastors

Operate every Friday night from around 22:00-02:30. Patrol West Street, North Street, East Street, Queens Road, Churchill Sq., The Lanes and Seafront.

3.4.7 Street Wise Community Street Marshalling Scheme

Operates during term time pm a Wednesday, Thursday and Friday night between 22:00-04:00. Covering Lewes Road, Hanover, Upper Lewes Road and around the North end of London Road, they are looking out for students to ensure they get home safely as well as reminding them of noise levels and prevent ASB issues. This is run by University of Sussex.

3.5 Off licences

In recent years there has been a noticeable shift towards more people buying alcohol from shops and drinking at home prior to going into premises such as pubs and clubs. The council is concerned that alcohol loading from off-licence sales is a significant problem in the city and adversely affects the licensing objectives as it gives rise to problems of drunkenness, disorderly behaviour and a higher risk of alcohol sales to children. Representations from the police, local residents and the director of public health at licensing panel hearings have testified to these problems and Information published in the Public Health Framework for assessing alcohol licensing presents a ward by ward analysis of crime and disorder and health data which is relevant in this respect.

3.5.1 The special policy on cumulative impact and the special stress areas apply to off-licences as explained in the matrix approach at 3.3. But in general where applications are made for new premises or variations to existing licences, and where the police or others make representations against the grant of a further licence for off sales, the council will give specific consideration to restricting the number, type, and the hours of premises selling alcohol exclusively for consumption off the premises. Decisions will be grounded in the Public Health Framework for assessing alcohol licensing. The council will want to be assured that the operating schedule of premises, and their overall management, training and levels of staffing, are appropriate to ensure that the licensing objectives are promoted in what may be challenging circumstances. Retail outlets and stores where the provision of fresh produce is the principal product sold maybe considered more favourably.

3.5.2 The Licensing Authority encourage off licences to join the Council led “Sensible on Strength” scheme to reduce the availability of cheap super strength beers and ciders. Off licences voluntarily sign up not to sell cheap super-strength beers and ciders over 6% ABV and operate good practice measures (see 3.5.3), for which they receive an accreditation as a responsible retailer.

3.5.3 Areas of best practice that may be included in an Operating Schedule include;

• the installation of a digital CCTV system by liaison with, and to a standard approved by Sussex Police
• Challenge 25 policy
• Refusals system
• Documented staff training including underage sales, drunkenness and proxy sales
• Voluntary restriction of high strength alcohol - operating schedules may be used to limit high ABV beers and ciders
• BCRP membership (or other accredited scheme)
• No sale of single cans
• Displays should not be located at the entrance/exit points or near checks out

3.5.4 The Licensing Authority and Sussex Police have specific concerns around the delivery of alcohol off the premises due to issues around the end location of

delivery, age verification checks (Challenge 25), the increased possibility of the alcohol coming into the CIZ and SSA from other areas, as well as the personal safety of drivers when having to refuse a delivery at the end destination.

3.5.5 Alcohol delivery poses a unique set of challenges as it often transfers the final age verification to a person who has no responsibility in relation to the Premises Licence which authorised the sale of alcohol. A premises licence holder needs to be satisfied that their drivers or the delivery drivers of the third party company they chose to use, have received regular and comprehensive training in age verification and identifying persons who have consumed too much alcohol.

3.5.6 Evidence has shown that customers have previously used landmarks/businesses not related to them as addresses for delivery so that alcohol could be consumed in open spaces/parks. The risk being that this may lead to increased crime and disorder including anti-social behaviour and criminal damage, as well as the possibility that underage persons can gain access to alcohol. Concerns have also been raised about the delivery of alcohol to known street drinking hotspots. Therefore, a condition requiring all deliveries to be to a verifiable residential or business address and a face to face ID verification is vital in mitigating some of this risk.

3.5.7 While the Licensing Authority and Sussex Police recognise this is a growing area of business, new or variation applications to include the delivery of alcohol off the premises will be subject to increased scrutiny. Suggested conditions for the provision of an alcohol delivery service can be found at Appendix A. These are not exhaustive and each application will be considered on its own merits

3.6 Street drinking

3.6.1 The Licensing Authority will have regard to areas highlighted by Sussex Police that are at risk from alcohol related anti-social behaviour. The nature of these areas can be fluid/seasonal and so updated maps and data will be produced regularly to ensure the information is current. These hot spot areas are considered high risk for street drinkers and the Licensing Authority will have regard to prevention of crime and disorder by virtue of street drinking and anti-social behaviour when considering applications in this area.

3.7 Temporary Event Notices

3.7.1 The Licensing Authority will encourage bona fide community events. Applications for TENs at existing licensed premises will not be encouraged where the proposal is simply to extend the existing hours of operation and applications made in cumulative impact areas will be subject to increased scrutiny by Police and Environmental Health. Licensing Guidance recognises that TENs are a light touch process, not requiring specific authorisation. The role of the licensing authority is purely administrative. However, the licensing authority with take into account the history. If the police or EHA believe that allowing the premises to be used in accordance with the TEN will undermine the licensing objectives, they must issue an objection notice.

3.8 Student and Organised Pub Crawls

3.8.1 The Licensing Team and other agencies work with universities, event organisers and promoters to ensure events are responsibly run to include good practice measures based on mandatory conditions and promoting licensing objectives. Such

measures include stewarding, on site medics, discounted non alcoholic drinks, water angels, and promotion of non-alcohol events.

3.9 Promoters and irresponsible drinks promotions

3.9.1 The Licensing Act 2003 makes no mention or provision for the use of promoters within licensed premises. Many of the late night bars and clubs within the Brighton & Hove Cumulative Impact Zone regularly hire promoters to sell nights at their venues. In recent years with the introduction of promoters within the Brighton night time economy, several issues have arisen. This includes promoters vouching for underage customers to get them inside licensed premises where they can access alcohol, providing flyers to passers by who throw them on the floor and irresponsible promotions for their nights. Many premises now have an agreement with their promoter for acceptable promotions and behaviour which includes the signing of a written contract of expectations. This shows premises evidencing their due diligence and ensures that promotion companies know what is expected of them. The contract could include, obligations to pick up self generated litter, verification of ages of their customers and users of their social media, promoters being over the age of 18 and responsible advertising on social media.

3.9.2 The Licensing Authority expect licensed premises to develop staff policy and training on recognising signs of drunkenness and vulnerability, for example, offering drinking water and tips for refusing customers who appear drunk. And discourage company polices that promote bonuses and sales incentives for selling alcohol. Licensing Authority will expect necessary precautionary processes to restrict drunkenness, e.g. Licensing Guidance states happy hours should not be designed to encourage individuals to drink excessively or rapidly.

3.10 Shadow Licences

3.10.1 A “shadow licence” is a simple way of describing a licence which has been obtained by one party in respect of premises to which another licence has already been granted to someone else. The usual reason for this would be to protect the landlord in case the tenant surrenders the licence without giving the landlord any notice or if review proceedings are brought against the licence and the licence is revoked and the landlord has no knowledge of this. In such a scenario there is a primary or live licence operated usually by a tenant and the ‘shadow licence’ is an additional licence often by the landlord which sits behind the primary licence.

3.10.2 The word Shadow Licence is used in practice, but has no legal definition. It is simply another licence on exactly the same terms as the first licence, normally granted to a landlord, whose sole purpose is to provide the landlord with the comfort and protection of having a licence in its own name. If the original operating licence then lapses or is surrendered, the landlord is able to use the Shadow Licence to replace it and market the premises as having the benefit of a licence of the same quality.

3.10.3 The Authority recognises that there is no restriction in the Licensing Act 2003 for there to be more than one licence to be in effect at any one time at the same premises. The Licensing Authority has concerns however that the holding of additional licences has the potential to undermine the decisions made as a result of determining applications to review a premises licence whereby if one licence was modified, suspended or revoked the premises could effectively continue to operate under the second licence.

3.10.4 Similarly Responsible Authorities, including the Police, Trading Standards and the Licensing Team, have expressed concerns regarding the enforcement of the terms and conditions of the premises licences if it is unclear under the authorisation of which premises licence the licensable activities are taking place and who is the relevant premises licence holder and DPS.

3.10.5 In order to promote the licensing objectives and provide clarity as to which premises licence is being used to provide licensable activities conditions can be added to the an additional premises licence application, these may include:

• The Licensing Authority and Police are informed at least 14 days prior to the provision of licensable activities under this licence.
• When this licence is used to provide licensable activities and the licence summary is displayed on the premises, the licence summary of any other premises licence will not be displayed at the same time.
• The premises licence holder will not trade/operate the premises for a period of 3 months after the revocation of the existing trading premises licence. This condition will not apply if the aforementioned licence is surrendered or lapses due to insolvency or death.
• The conditions will remain in exactly the same terms as licence number [LICENCE NUMBER]

3.10.6 To promote the licensing objectives this Authority will take a holistic view of the licensing circumstances at the premises. The Licensing Authority will encourage Responsible Authorities and other persons when submitting an application to review a premises licence, to also consider whether it is appropriate to review all the licences in effect at the premises in order to promote the licensing objectives.

The following details and measures are intended to address the need for the prevention of crime and disorder which may be associated with licensed premises and certificated club premises. Conditions attached to licences and certificates will, as far as possible, reflect local crime reduction strategies.

4.1.1 The licensing authority acknowledges that training and good management play a key part in preventing alcohol and drug related crime. The authority expects that all licensees of on-licensed premises attend training programmes which will raise their awareness of the issues relating to drugs and violence in licensed premises, and that suitable training be extended to all bar staff and door supervisors so that drug dealers and users will be deterred from using licensed premises for illegal purposes and that incidents of violence in licensed premises will be reduced. Licensees are also encouraged to attend training programmes to help identify children at risk and issues of basic child protection. It is the duty of the designated premises supervisor (DPS) to train staff on induction concerning conditions on their premises licence.

4.1.2 It is expected that the DPS will spend a significant amount of time on the premises. When not on the premises it will be essential that the DPS is contactable, particularly should problems arise with the premises and that staff are authorised by the DPS.

4.1.3 The location of violent attacks, anti-social behaviour and hate crime or related incidents may be used to justify closing times.

4.1.4 Measures put in place should support the intentions of Operation Marble (police operational order), which aims to prevent incidents of crime and disorder within the night time economy, at weekends. Operation Marble operates with a view to minimising the risk to the public of being a victim of public place violent crime; to reduce incidents of violent crime and public disorder within the city centre; to deal positively with offences and offenders; to secure and preserve evidence which will assist in the prosecution of offenders and to support the night time economy and the responsibly run businesses within it.

4.2 Sussex Police

4.2.1 Sussex Police have a specific Operation relating to the night time economy called Operation Marble (detailed in 3.4.1) and work closely with partners to ensure a safe and vibrant city centre. There continues to be an increasing demand for resources further into the early hours of the morning with the highest concentration of crimes occurring between 21:00 and 06:00 on a Friday into a Saturday and between 20:00 and 06:00 on a Saturday night into a Sunday. The data set used shows that up to 80% of arrests made in the timeframe 20:00 – 06:00 on these days were affected by alcohol. For full details of these statistics see the Cumulative Impact Assessment at Appendix E.

4.2.2 The dealing and use of drugs remains an issue across the city and Sussex Police welcome proactive policies from licensed premises. A drug safe and seizure recording initiative is in place of which further details can be obtained by contacting Brighton & Hove Police Licensing (brighton.licensing@sussex.pnn.police.uk) .This initiative encourages licensed premises with Door Supervisors to search and seize drugs from persons attempting to enter their premises and ensures that once drugs are removed from persons, they can be safely collected and destroyed by Sussex Police.

4.2.3 Dispersal from the city centre during the late evening and early morning remains a policing challenge. Over recent years, there has been a proliferation of off-licences and late night refreshment venues along the city’s arterial routes. This has led to incident ‘hot spots’ where patrons from the night time economy continue to interact, albeit away from any safety measures afforded by on-licences. As such, Sussex Police support the Council’s Special Policy in offering guidance to both applicants and the Licensing Committee in relation to off-licences and late night refreshment licences.

4.2.4 Sussex Police have continuing concerns that, despite staff training in age-restricted sales, under age individuals are still being served alcohol both on and off the premises in some of the city’s licensed premises. As such, regular intelligence-led ‘test-purchase’ operations are conducted to highlight premises where sales are taking place and ensure appropriate enforcement action is taken to prevent further sales. The introduction of identification scanning machines at premises throughout the city has proved successful in mitigating some risk, but operators must maintain vigilance regarding the fraudulent use of genuine IDs. Sussex Police continue to work alongside the Business Crime Reduction Partnership to tackle the problem of those who use false or another’s identification to enter licensed premises and purchase alcohol.

4.2.5 Sussex Police work closely with venues and other organisations within the city to protect vulnerable people from becoming victims of crime. As well as work to prevent under age sales, vulnerability training is offered to identify persons who may have been made vulnerable through alcohol or drugs. Sussex Police also support initiatives such as (but not limited to) safe spaces, mobile teams of volunteers actively checking people’s well-being and the Beach Patrol.

4.2.6 Public Space Protection Orders have proved an effective tool for Sussex Police in targeting enforcement action in problem areas of the city. It ‘allows Police Officers and Police Community Support Officers to remove alcohol from any person in a public place if that person is involved in anti-social behaviour (ASB) or the officer believes that by having alcohol in their possession there is an increased risk of ASB. It is an offence to refuse to hand over alcohol when required to do so.’ They have been particularly effective in the day time economy where members of the street community are causing ASB issues for members of the public and local businesses, especially during the summer months where there is a large influx of visitors to Brighton & Hove.

4.2.7 Policing the night time economy continues to provide a challenge and in the climate of limited resources and newly emerging problems, Sussex Police support maintaining the council’s Special Policy which defines cumulative impact and special stress and will continue to take enforcement action where appropriate if the actions of a Premises Licence Holder, Designated Premises Supervisor, Door Supervisors or Staff have fallen below the high standard expected across the city. Sussex Police also recognise and support businesses which are aware of their social responsibilities and as such, actively contribute towards keeping Brighton & Hove a safe and enjoyable city.

4.3 Care, control and supervision of premises

4.3.1 The Licensing authority supports the Business Crime Reduction Partnership and other approved schemes. Where appropriate, premises licence holders should be members of the BCRP for the deterrence to violent crime that such membership provides. The BCRP NightSafe radio scheme is normally expected as an operational requirement for city centre bars, clubs and pubs and is an example of good practice in achieving the aim of reducing crime and disorder and improving public safety. Well managed pub-watch schemes provide information exchange between the premises licence holders and responsible authorities that reduce and deter violent crime and disorder. The council will support a responsible licensing scheme.

4.3.2 The effective management and supervision of a venue is a key factor in reducing crime and disorder, both within it and outside. The police will consider the applicants, objecting to the application where appropriate. The police may suggest crime prevention measures in relation to, for example, the internal layout of the premises, closed-circuit television, help points, lighting and security staff. The police may ask for conditions which support such measures to be imposed when licensing applications are granted, eg type of licence, capacity, operating hours restrictions.

4.3.3 Following the grant of a licence, the management and supervision of the premises, in so far as it might impact on crime and disorder, will continue to be monitored. Particular attention will be paid to any licensed premises where there is evidence of criminal activity or any association with racist or homophobic crime. The licensing authority will keep itself well briefed on the nature, location and type of premises where alcohol related violence and disorder are occurring so it can take full account of the facts and avoid exacerbating problems as required by the Community Safety Strategy. Where licensed premises are found to cause nuisance or be associated with disorder or unreasonable disturbance, the review process may be invoked, and powers of revocation or the imposition of conditions may be considered. Conditions may include use of closed-circuit television, licensed door supervisors and earlier closing times. Such action to restrict the operation may be taken for trial periods to allow businesses an opportunity to remedy existing disorder, nuisance or disturbance.

4.3.4 This policy recognises the use of registered Door Supervisors All Door Supervisors will be licensed by the Security Industry Authority. Mobile security units and similar systems are in use by some premises operators as a means of providing security cover at very short notice at premises which may not normally require a permanent security presence. This policy endorses the use of units following such guidance and standards in appropriate circumstances.

4.3.5 The development of codes of practice and general operating standards for security companies is encouraged for local businesses; premises operators are urged to ensure that security services, when engaged, are provided by suitably qualified businesses operating to recognised standards and who should be working towards SIA accreditation.

4.3.6 Enforcement will be achieved by the enforcement policy appended (Appendix B).

The following details and measures are intended to address the need for the protection of public safety which may be associated with licensed premises and certificated club premises.

5.1.1 The permitted capacity is a limit on the number of persons who may be on the premises at any time, following a recommendation by the relevant fire and rescue authority under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. For any application for a premises licence or club premises certificate for premises without an existing permitted capacity where the applicant wishes to take advantage of the special provisions set out in section 177 of the 2003 Act, the applicant should conduct their own risk assessment as to the appropriate capacity of the premises. They should send their recommendation to the fire and rescue authority which will consider it and decide what the “permitted capacity” of those premises should be.

5.1.2 Normally in the city centre, pubs and clubs will be expected to operate using polycarbonate or toughened/shatterproof glass.

5.1.3 Conditions may be imposed in accordance with operating schedules to protect public safety including where justified:

1. provision of closed-circuit television and panic buttons.
2. use of shatterproof drinking vessels; bottles requiring use of toughened glass or plastic should normally be required unless applicants can show exceptional reasons.
3. use of door supervisors, licensed by the Security Industry Authority.
4. requirement of a minimum of a licensed door supervisor for every 100 customers in nightclubs and large city centre pubs or as indicated by risk assessment.
5. occupant capacity conditions will be applied where appropriate.
6. the provision of designated and suitably trained first aiders.

5.1.4 Where appropriate, licence holders or their authorised representatives will submit event safety plans and operating manuals, attend Event Planning Teams or Safety Advisory Groups and similar meetings prior to large events and shall be part of Event Liaison Teams during such events. Due regard shall be had to relevant guidance and publications including, for example: HSE approved code of practice for events.

The following details and measures are intended to address the need for the prevention of public nuisance which may be associated with licensed premises and certificated club premises:

6.1.1 In determining applications for new and varied licences, regard will be had to the location of premises, the type and construction of the building and the likelihood of nuisance and disturbance to the amenity of nearby residents by reason of noise from within the premises, as a result of people entering or leaving the premises or from individuals or groups of customers gathered outside (eg in order to smoke).

6.1.2 Applications for new licences or for the extension in size of licensed premises should not normally be granted if the premises will use amplified or live music and operate within or abutting premises containing residential accommodation except that occupied by staff of the licensed premises. A condition may be imposed on new licences that entertainment noise shall be inaudible in any residence. Noise emanating from within licensed premises should not normally be audible outside.

6.1.3 Installation of sound limiting equipment and sound insulation may be required to minimise disturbance to the amenity of nearby residents by reason of noise from the licensed premises.

6.1.4 Generally, regulated entertainment in the open air including tents and marquees should have a maximum closure hour of 2300. Earlier hours may be imposed in sensitive open spaces or near residential areas. The Licensing Authority will have regard to Noise Council guidance.

6.1.5 In determining applications for new licences or extensions in hours or terminal hours of licensed premises, regard will be had to late night public transport availability and location of taxi ranks to aid dispersal of customers.

6.1.6 Reasonable controls are available to all premises operators to minimise the impact of noise from customers outside. The council’s Environmental Health Department has issued guidance on a number of steps that can be taken in this respect which are endorsed by this policy (see 6.2 below).

6.2 Smoking Advice

6.2.1 Premises licence holders will be expected to:#

Develop a management plan on how to manage smoking on their premises and ensure that all staff are aware of the contents of this plan, and that it is effectively implemented. Noise from people smoking and talking can be intermittent, vary in character and volume and be intrusive. An effective smoking management plan will help prevent neighbours being disturbed.

• Comply with any planning conditions restricting the use of outdoor areas.
• Ensure that any structures used by smokers comply with the design criteria detailed in the Heath Act 2006 and that any structures, awnings, retractable canopies, etc have the relevant planning permission.
• Ensure any new lighting to outdoor areas must be designed so as not to cause a light nuisance to neighbours and again have the relevant planning permission and building control consent.
• Ensure that the conditions on the premises licence are complied with. There may be conditions restricting the hours of use of gardens and outdoor areas. Having reviewed the contents of the premises licence it may be necessary to request a variation of your licence.
• Licence tables and chairs on the Public Highway under the provisions of the Highways Act 1980. These licences may have conditions restricting the times that the area can be used.
• Ensure drinks, glasses and bottles are not taken onto the highway unless there is a tables and chairs licence permitting use. A system should be adopted to prevent theft and ‘spiking’ of drinks, and reminding customers not to leave unattended items.
• Discourage smokers remaining in gardens and outdoor areas and determine terminal hours.
• Discourage smokers remaining outside by removing/disabling tables and chairs or prohibiting their use after a certain time. Lights and heaters will also be turned off.
• Introduce a system that after a certain time the number of smokers outside are restricted to a maximum number. Staff will be needed to manage this restriction.
• Employ staff and/or SIA registered door supervisors to manage doors and control customers and smokers entering and leaving the premises. Staff positioned on the doors can help to encourage customers not to cause a noise problem. It may be that staff are required to manage doors after a certain time, particularly during the hours when neighbouring residents are trying to sleep.
• Ensure door supervisors maintain order outside venues and protect customer safety. BCRP supports the use of Night Safe. Radio net and other pager systems and pub watch schemes can be used to provide for rapid police response and alert other venues where customers and staff are endangered.
• Position signs to remind customers that the premises is in an area where people live. It is not always obvious in busy commercial streets with flats above. By changing the design and wording of signs customers do not forget. Signs can be located in and outside the premises and on tables.
• Use CCTV to manage outside areas.

6.2.2 Licensed premises should normally display prominent, legible signs at exits reminding customers to leave in a quiet, peaceful, orderly manner.

The following details and measures are intended to address the need for the protection of children from harm; this includes emotional and physical harm which may be associated with licensed premises and certificated club premises (for example the exposure too early to strong language and sexual expletives, eg in the context of film exhibitions or where adult entertainment is provided). It is intended that the admission of children to premises holding a premises licence or club premises certificate should normally be freely allowed without restricting conditions (unless the 2003 Act itself imposes such conditions or there are good reasons to restrict entry or to exclude children completely).

7.1.1 Licensees should note the concern of the authority that drink related disorder frequently involves under 18’s. To prevent illegal purchases of alcohol by such persons, all licensees should work with a suitable ‘proof of age’ scheme and ensure that appropriate identification is requested prior to entry and when requesting alcohol, where appropriate. Appropriate forms of identification are currently considered to be those recommended by police, trading standards officers and their partners in the Licensing Strategy Group (eg passport, photo driving licence or pass card).

7.1.2 It is the licensing authority’s expectation that all staff responsible for the sale of intoxicating liquor receive information and advice on the licensing laws relating to children and young persons in licensed premises. Licensed premises staff are required to take reasonable steps to prevent under age sales. The licensing authority will not seek to limit the access of children to any premises unless it is necessary for the prevention of emotional or psychological harm to them. Each application will be considered on its own merit but particular areas that will give rise to concern in respect of children are to be found in section 7.1.4 below.

7.1.3 To reduce alcohol-induced problematic behaviour by under 18 year olds, to enforce underage purchase and drinking laws and to assist in the protection of children from harm, the licensing authority supports the following measures:-

1. Police should exercise powers (Confiscation of Alcohol (Young Persons) Act 1997) to remove alcohol from young people on the street
2. Police and trading standards should implement test purchasing to reduce sales to under 18s in on and off sales licensed premises
3. Further take-up of proof of age schemes will be promoted
4. In-house, mystery shopper type schemes operated by local businesses will be supported
5. Providers of events specifically catering for unaccompanied children should consider whether all staff at such events need to be DBS checked

7.1.4 The licensing authority will not seek to require that access to any premises is given to children at all times – under normal circumstances this will be left to the discretion of the licensee. The following areas give rise to concern in respect of children, who will normally be excluded from premises:

• where there have been convictions for serving alcohol to minors or with a reputation for underage drinking;
• with a known association with drug taking or dealing;
• where there is a strong element of gambling on the premises;
• where entertainment of an adult or sexual nature is commonly provided;
• where premises are used primarily or exclusively for the sale and consumption of alcohol and there is little or no seating for patrons.

Options may include:

• limitations on the hours when children may be present;
• age limitations (below 18);
• limitations or exclusions when certain activities are taking place;
• requirements for an accompanying adult;
• full exclusion of people under 18.

7.1.5 Licensees of premises giving film exhibitions will be expected to include in their operating schedules arrangements for restricting children from viewing age restricted films. Such premises will be subject to a mandatory condition requiring that access will be restricted to only those who meet the required age limit in accordance with any certificate granted by the British Board of Film Classification, or in specific cases where such certificates have not been granted, the licensing authority. The licensing authority does not intend to adopt its own system of film classification. The licensing authority’s procedures for dealing with unclassified films are appended at Appendix C.

7.1.6 Where children are expected to attend a public entertainment, appropriate adult supervision will be required to control the access and egress of children and to protect them from harm. This will normally be an adult member of staff for every 100 children. Where the entertainment is music and dancing, 2 persons, licensed by the Security Industry Authority (door supervisors) should be employed for every 100 children but will be subject to advice within the Event Safety Guide. Nothing in this policy shall seek to override child supervision requirements contained in other legislation or regulations. For exclusively under 18 events reference should be made to police guidelines (available from the Police Licensing Unit, Brighton tel. 101). The licensing authority recognises the Director of Children’s Services as being competent to advise on matters relating to the protection of children from harm. Applicants shall copy their applications to the Director of Children’s Services in its capacity as the responsible authority. Copies should be sent care of the Police.

The “What to do” booklet is a national one and can be accessed online. If you are concerned about a child locally to contact the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 01273 290400, or you can contact Sussex Police on 101. If they think a child is in immediate danger, dial 999.

7.1.7 Trading standards and the police undertake ongoing enforcement operations around under-age sales and test purchasing. Sussex Police and BCRP undertake work concerning proxy purchases and counterfeit ID as part of the partnership support work with Community Safety and Trading Standards.

7.1.8 Trading standards have a programme of business support including training for local businesses to avoid under-age sales.

8.1.1 The licensing authority shall secure the proper integration of this policy with local crime prevention, planning policy, transport, tourism and cultural strategies by:-

• Liaising and consulting with the Sussex Police, Community Safety Forum, Sustainability Commission representatives and following the guidance in community safety and crime and disorder strategy
• Liaising and consulting with Public and Alcohol Programme Board
• Liaising and consulting with the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service
• Liaising and consulting with the Local Strategic Partnership, Safety Advisory Group (Emergency Planning) and Equalities and Social Justice Consultation Forum
• Liaising and consulting with the Planning authority
• Liaising and consulting with the Highways authority
• Liaising and consulting with local business and business associations. Having regard to any future documents issued relating to the Private Security Industry Act 2001, for example liaison or information sharing protocols
• Liaising and consulting with the Trading Standards Team, for example with regard to test purchasing codes of practice

8.1.2 In line with statutory requirements and the council’s Inclusion Policy, the Licensing Authority shall have due regard to the need to eliminate unlawful discrimination, and to promote equality of opportunity and positive relations between persons of diverse backgrounds, for example communities of interest such as: lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people; disabled people; racial and ethnic groups; religious and faith groups.

8.1.3 This policy supports the aims of the tourism strategy, recognising the benefits for the tourism economy of creating a safer and more attractive city centre and improving competitiveness with other European cities. The Licensing Committee should receive any reports relevant to the needs of the local tourist economy and the cultural strategy for the area to ensure that it considers these matters.

8.1.4 The Licensing Committee should receive relevant information relating to the employment situation of the area and the need for new investment and employment where appropriate.

8.1.5 Specific conditions may be attached to premises licences to reflect local crime prevention strategies. Such conditions may include the use of closed circuit television cameras, use of the NightSafe radio system or accredited scheme, the provision and use of shatterproof drinking receptacles, drugs and weapons search policy, the use of registered door supervisors, specialised lighting requirements, hours of opening. Certificates issued to club premises shall reflect local crime prevention strategies and may include any or all of the requirements listed above.

8.1.6 The licensing authority will have regard to the need to disperse people quickly and safely from the city centre to avoid concentrations which may produce disorder and disturbance.

8.2 Other regulatory regimes

8.2.1 This policy avoids duplication with other regulatory regimes wherever possible. The following notes are made with regard to specific regimes:

Health and Safety

Certain premises will be the subject of health and safety enforcement by the local authority or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). If other existing law already places certain statutory responsibilities on an employer or operator of premises, for example the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, it will not be necessary to impose the same or similar duties on the premises licence holder or club. However, existing duties will not always adequately cover specific issues that arise on the premises in connection with, for example, certain types of entertainment, and where additional and supplementary measures are necessary to promote the licensing objectives, necessary, proportionate conditions will need to be attached to a licence.

Fire Safety 

Premises and their operators will be regulated by general duties under current fire safety regimes and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 rather than licensing provisions.

Noise

Statutory and public nuisances are dealt with by the local authority’s Environmental Health department under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, Noise Act 1996 and associated legislation. Noise from commercial premises may often fall under review powers set out in licensing provisions and closure powers in anti-social behaviour provisions.

Equality Act 2010

The Public Sector Equality Duty obliges public authorities to have due regard to the need to eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation, and to advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations between persons who share protected characteristics and persons who do not share it. The local authority’s equality and inclusion policy produced under these obligations shall include reference to this statement of licensing policy.

Community relations

Integration of corporate strategies with licensing policy will include the Inclusive Council Policy which recognises the council’s role, as a community leader, to promote community cohesion and good relations between diverse communities. Measures to address prevention of crime and disorder recognise the need to improve well being and safety of all the communities in the city. Licensing policy supports the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership’s crime reduction strategy. In particular it seeks to confront and reduce racist, homophobic, transphobic and religiously motivated crimes, incidents and anti-social behaviour.

Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 

Contains powers to close premises that are causing nuisance or disorder. These powers can be exercised by the council or Police and they replace the closure powers in the Licensing Act 2003. The Act also contains powers to issue Community Protection Notices in respect of persons or businesses committing anti-social behaviour which is spoiling a community’s quality of life.

Litter and Smoking

Cityclean contractors have Clean Neighbourhoods powers to enforce premises operators’ responsibilities to keep frontages clear of litter.

Gambling Act 2005 

In relation to casinos and bingo clubs, the principal purpose is gaming. The sale of alcohol and the provision of entertainment in such premises is incidental to gaming and in determining whether to permit entertainment that constitutes regulated entertainment under the act, gaming license committees and / or the Gambling Commission will have taken into account relevant government guidance. Accordingly it is felt that the licensing objectives will have been, or will be in the main, adequately considered by such committees and duplication of conditions should be avoided when considering applications under the 2003 Act where relevant representations have been made.

8.3 Enforcement

8.3.1 The Enforcement of licensing law and inspection of licensed premises is detailed in the Protocol between Sussex Police, the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and Brighton & Hove City Council. This protocol reflects the need for more efficient deployment of Police and Local Authority staff commonly engaged in licensing enforcement and can be found at Appendix D (Lead Agency Status) of the Statement of Licensing Policy. In addition the Licensing Authority will have regard to its published Licensing Enforcement Policy in making enforcement decisions in accordance with Brighton & Hove City Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy (Appendix B). In order to better target enforcement resources, inspections will be undertaken outside of normal office hours and the sharing of information between all enforcement agencies will be encouraged through joint meetings or similar arrangements.

8.3.2 Attention is drawn to the targeting of agreed problem and high risk premises requiring greater attention as identified in the protocol. A number of other council and government policies, strategies and guidance documents must be taken into account to complement the policy, including:

• Community Safety & Crime Reduction Strategy
• Drugs and alcohol strategies – local alcohol harm reduction strategy
• Objectives of the Security Industry Authority
• The Anti Social Behaviour Act 2003/ASBPC Act 2014
• The Health Act 2006
• The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006
• Policing and Crime Act 2009

9.1.1 Reviews represent a key protection for the community. Where the licensing authority considers action necessary under its statutory powers it will take necessary steps to support the licensing objectives. Action following review will be informed by licensing enforcement policy – Appendix B.

9.1.2 Where style of operation of a premises leads to applications concerning likelihood of racist, religiously motivated, homophobic or transphobic crimes or incidents, the review process should also support the community safety policy. Action should be proportionate and licences would normally be suspended or revoked in these circumstances to deter further incidents.

10.1.1 This policy recognises the need to encourage live music, dancing and theatre for the wider cultural benefits of the community generally. In addressing such issues the potential for limited disturbance in neighbourhoods will always be carefully balanced with these wider benefits, particularly for children. The impact of licensing on regulated entertainment, particularly live music and dancing, will be monitored. Where indications are that such events are being deterred by licensing requirements, the policy will be revisited with a view to investigating how such situations might be reversed.

10.1.2 The Licensing Committee represents the general interests of a community in determining what conditions should be attached to licences and certificates as a matter of necessity for the promotion of the licensing objectives. All members of the Licensing Committee will be trained on Licensing Act 2003 and S182 Guidance. The Licensing authority is aware of the need to avoid measures which deter live music, dancing and theatre - such as imposing indirect costs out of proportion to the income of the licence holder and to the risks presented. Only appropriate, proportionate and reasonable licensing conditions should impose any restrictions on such events.

10.1.3 The licensing committee will support the cultural zones, outdoor eating areas, food led operations, community pubs, live entertainment and protect living conditions in mixed use areas.

11.1.1 Guidance notes to accompany this policy and details about the licensing application process, including application forms, can be found:

• E-mail ehl.safety@brighton-hove.gov.uk
• Via www.brighton-hove.gov.uk (search under Licensing Act 2003 and follow the relevant links, for example to the Licensing Applications page for a weekly update of applications received)
• By contacting the Health & Safety and Licensing Team at: Bartholomew House, Bartholomew Square, Brighton BN1 1JP
• By telephoning them on 01273 294429

11.1.2 Advice and guidance to applicants may also be sought from other agencies and departments by contacting them at:

Police

Licensing Unit, Police Station, John Street, Brighton, BN2 0LA

Tel: 101

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service

Brighton & Hove Fire Safety Office, Hove Fire Station, English Close, Hove, BN3 7EE

Tel: 01323 462130

Health & Safety

For non-council owned premises

Environmental Health & Licensing, Bartholomew House, Bartholomew Square, Brighton, BN1 1JP

Tel: 01273 294429

For council parks & other council-run premises

Enforcement Liaison Officer, HSE, Phoenix House, 23-25 Cantelupe Road, East Grinstead, RH19 3BE

Tel: 01342 334200

Planning

Development Control, Hove Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove, BN3 1PT

Tel: 01273 290000

Child Protection

Director of Children’s Services, Hove Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove, BN3 1PT

Tel: 01273 290000

Environmental Health

Environmental Protection Team, Bartholomew House, Bartholomew Square, Brighton, BN1 1JP

Tel: 01273 290000

Trading Standards

Bartholomew House, Bartholomew Square, Brighton, BN1 1JP

Tel: 01273 292523

Director of Public Health

Hove Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove, BN3 1PT

Tel: 01273 296555

Please note the above were correct at time of publication but may be subject to change; please contact the Licensing Authority if you have queries regarding the above contact points

Best Practice Measures to be included for consideration, in particular in SSA:

Matters that would normally be expected in operating schedules:

• the adoption of a policy (e.g. Challenge 25) with acceptable proof of ID as per existing Statement of Licensing Policy
• all off sales to be made in sealed containers for consumption away from the premises
• a smoking policy which includes an assessment of noise and litter created by premises users
• the use of plastic or polycarbonate drinking vessels and containers, especially in outside areas or after specified hours
• a policy in relation to searching customers and for drugs, weapons, seized or lost and found property
• use of a refusals book for registering attempts to buy alcohol by under-age persons or refusals to those intoxicated
• the installation of a digital CCTV system by liaison with, and to a standard approved by, Sussex Police
• policies for dispersal of customers which may include signage regarding taxi services’ telephone numbers and advice to respect neighbours and minimize noise

Items to which positive consideration would be given:

• membership of Business Crime Reduction Partnership, Pubwatch, Neighbourhood Watch or similar schemes
• use of ‘NightSafe’ radio system or similar accredited scheme
• regular training and reminders for staff in respect of licensing legislation, policies and procedures; records of which should be properly recorded and available for inspection
• records of regular checks of all parts of the premises in relation to drug use
• systems in place to ensure details of barred clients are exchanged with other operators
• giving an agreed minimum notice of special events (screening of major sports events, birthday parties, adult entertainment, etc.) to relevant authorities and use of appropriate additional measures at such events

Recommend best practice for both on and off premises

• Staff must be aware of the risk of the problem of proxy sales and offer assistance to responsible authorities to deter offences
• Signage on premises should set out legal duties
• Voluntary restriction of high strength alcohol – operating schedules may be used to limit high ABV beers and ciders
• Staff training – in addition to personal licence holders training, staff must be adequately trained for duties
• Challenge 25 would be the norm, particularly in the off licence trade
• Signage – proxy sale – deterrence

Shared Workspace

The Licensing Authority and the Police are aware that each set up and office block will be different and so support the approach of each case on its own merits. We would of course look at location, timings of licensable activity as well as the types of licensable activity being applied for upon receipt of any application. This would be taken into consideration as part of the decision making process and appropriate and proportional conditions agreed with the applicant if suitable. The conditions below are a selection of what have been offered/suggested/agreed in recent applications for shared office spaces.

• Access to the premises will be restricted to members only who are in possession of a key fob or similar access device and their invited guests. All guests attending functions at the premises where alcohol will be served must sign in and a record kept.
• ON sales only
• The will be no overt advertising of the licence facilities outside of the premises.
• No children under the age of 18 will be allowed on the premises unless accompanied by and under the control of an adult.
• There shall be no consumption of alcohol in the other non-licensed areas of the building and appropriate signage shall be displayed throughout the building to reinforce this.
• The sale of intoxicating liquor on the ground floor shall only be for consumption by persons seated at tables within the café bar area and on the [NAMED/NUMBERED] floor only by persons seated. There will be no vertical drinking in the licensed areas and substantial food shall be available at all times.
• From [X TIME] for pre-arranged events held inside the premises, for educational, networking or other similar events linked with the use of the premises to promote business vertical drinking will be permitted. A record of such of events will be kept on the premises and available for inspection by the Licensing Authority or the police.
• Whenever the premises is conducting the sale of alcohol for events for 100 persons or more, then either the designated premises supervisor, another personal licence holder or suitable Licensing act 2003 trained manager shall be present within the licensed premises.
• SIA registered door supervisors shall be employed when a requirement if identified by the Licence Holders risk assessment. The written risk assessment will be reviewed at least once every calendar year. The written risk assessment will take in to account information of guidance offered by the Police and also taking in to account busy periods such as Bank Holidays, seasonal variations and other city centre even premises for inspection of the Police and Authorised Officers of the Licensing Authority.

Alcohol Delivery Service

Conditions for consideration by any potential applicant may include (but are not exhaustive):

• Alcohol will only be delivered to residential and business addresses. The recipient will be required to show the requisite ID to ensure that they are clearly a resident or employed at the named delivery address. Alcohol will not be delivered to customers at a park, in an open space, the beach, a bus stop etc.
• Delivery riders must be instructed to abort delivery where that sale is believed to be a “street sale” or to an open space. All such instances will be recorded in the refusals/incidents log.
• The alcohol delivery service will be ancillary to the provision of takeaway food. All alcohol deliveries must be accompanied by an order for food, the food contingent of the delivery being a minimum of [£X].
• All orders received with an alcohol element will be for delivery only, there will be no collection facilities available from the premises.
• All forms of advertising and promotional literature dealing with the delivery service (including internet sites and flyers/leaflets) will clearly and prominently state that alcohol will only be delivered together with an order for food, the food contingent of the total delivery being a minimum of [£X]. It will also advise of the premises ‘Challenge 25’ policy, which forms of approved ID will be accepted and that failure to show the required form of ID will result in non-delivery of the alcohol. This will be reiterated at the point of sale e.g. through an online ordering website/platform.
• All employees and agents of the premises or agents delivering orders will receive full advance training in selling alcohol, approved forms of ID and Challenge 25 policy as per condition [x] on the premises licence. All staff and agents will be fully trained and understand the company’s policy of non-delivery where approved ID is not available during final interaction with the customer.
• All such training undertaken by staff members shall be fully documented and recorded. All training records shall be made available to Sussex Police, officers of the local authority and officers from the Trading Standards team upon request.
• A record of sales and deliveries will be kept and made available for inspection by the Police, Licensing Authority or officers from the Trading Standards team for 6 months from the date of delivery or refusal of alcohol.
• Where an order is taken for delivery by an employee of the premises to a customer, all customers will sign a delivery note which will contain:
  
  1. a list of individual items delivered;
  2. the delivery address;
  3. the method of payment;
  4. the name of the person ordering and receiving alcohol
  5. the date and time of delivery;
  6. if proof of age was asked for, confirmation of the type of proof of age document presented and accepted;
  7. the name of the employee or representative of the premises who made the delivery.
• For deliveries where the alcohol is delivered personally by the Designated Premises Supervisor, or their employees or agents (including Deliveroo couriers) where the DPS has direct supervision over them and in the event that the person ordering and paying for the alcohol nominates another person (the third party) as the recipient of the alcohol (as a gift etc) and the alcohol is to be delivered directly to the third party and not the person ordering and paying for the alcohol, then the person ordering and paying for the alcohol will be required to state as part of their order that the third party/recipient is aged over 18.

1.0 Statement of objectives

The council as licensing authority and responsible authority is committed to the council’s priorities and will inform the enforcement actions taken. Amendments to priorities will be embedded automatically.

1.1

This service policy promotes efficient and effective approaches to regulatory inspection and enforcement that improve regulatory outcomes without imposing unnecessary burdens. This is in accordance with the Regulator’s Compliance Code.

1.2

In certain instances the service may conclude that a provision in the code is either not relevant or is outweighed by another provision. It will ensure that any decision to depart from the code will be properly reasoned, based on material evidence and documented.

1.3

The service pursues a positive and proactive approach towards ensuring compliance by:

• Supporting the better regulation agenda;
• Helping make prosperity and protection a reality for the city’s community;
• Helping and encouraging regulated entities to understand and meet regulatory requirements more easily;
• Responding proportionately to regulatory breaches; and
• Protecting and improving public health and the environment.

1.4

This policy is based on the seven ‘Hampton Principles’ of:

Economic Progress: Regulators should recognise that a key element of their activity will be to allow, or even encourage, economic progress and only to intervene when there is a clear case for protection;

Risk Assessment: Regulators, and the regulatory system as a whole, should use comprehensive risk assessment to concentrate resources in the areas that need them most;

Advice and Guidance: Regulators should provide authoritative, accessible advice easily and cheaply;

Inspections and other visits: No inspection should take place without a reason;

Information requirements: Businesses should not have to give unnecessary information or give the same information twice;

Compliance and enforcement actions: The few businesses that persistently break regulations should be identified quickly and face proportionate and meaningful sanctions; and

Accountability: Regulators should be accountable for the efficiency and effectiveness of their activities, while remaining independent in the decisions they take.

1.6

The rights and freedoms given under the Human Rights Act, particularly Article 6 and 8, will be observed, as will the provisions of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act.

2.0 Scope of the policy

2.1

This policy supports and supplements specific guidance on enforcement action contained in the Statutory Code of Practice for Regulators, Brighton & Hove City Council’s Corporate Enforcement Policy, Statutory Codes of Practice and relevant guidance documents and guidelines issued by government departments and co-ordinating bodies.

2.2

This policy relates to actions taken to educate and enforce legislation where non-compliances have been identified or have a realistic potential to occur.

2.3

The policy is limited to those enforcement activities lead by the Head of Environmental Health & Licensing.

3.0 Training

3.1

Officers undertaking enforcement duties will be suitably trained and qualified so as to ensure they are fully competent to undertake their enforcement activities.

4.0 Management systems

4.1

The service will maintain management systems to monitor the quality and nature of enforcement activities undertaken, so as to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, uniformity and consistency.

5.0 Enforcement options

5.1

The service recognises the importance of achieving and maintaining consistency in its approach to enforcement. Statutory Codes of Practice and guidance issued by government departments, other relevant enforcement agencies or professional bodies will therefore be considered and followed where appropriate.

5.2

Sanctions and penalties will be consistent, balanced, fairly implemented and relate to common standards that ensure individual’s, public safety or the environment is adequately protected. The aim of sanctions and penalties are to:

• Change the behaviour of the offender;
• Eliminate any financial gain or benefit from non-compliance;
• Be responsive and consider what is appropriate for the particular offender and regulatory issue, which can include punishment and the public stigma that should be associated with a criminal conviction;
• Proportionate to the nature of the offence and the harm caused; and
• Aim to deter future non-compliance.

5.3

Criteria to be taken into account when considering the most appropriate enforcement option include:

• the potential of the offence to cause harm;
• confidence in the offender;
• consequences of non compliance;
• likely effectiveness of the various enforcement options.

5.4

Having considered all the relevant options the choices for action are:

• Informal Warning: All advice issued will be given in writing and specify the nature of the breach or offence, and the actions required to remedy the issue. An informal warning may be included with the advice, and may accompany higher-level actions, such as Enforcement Notices or Voluntary Surrender:
• Licence review: Licence review power will be used where an application for review relates to one or more of the licensing objectives.
• Taxi licence: Taxi licence suspension or revocation will be used to protect public safety. Other sanctions such as DSA testing will be used to protect public safety and in accordance with the taxi licensing policy (Blue book).
• Simple Caution: The issue of a Simple Caution by an authorised officer may be undertaken as an alternative to prosecution where it is considered unnecessary to involve the courts, and the offender’s response to the problem makes repeat offending unlikely, or the offender’s age or health make it appropriate. Cautions may only be issued where the offender makes a clear and reliable admission of guilt and understands the significance of acceptance.
• Prosecution: A prosecution is appropriate where there is a breach of a legal requirement, such that public safety, health, economic or physical well-being or the environment or environmental amenity is adversely affected. The Crown Prosecutor’s Code of Evidential and Public Interests tests must be met in all cases. However, certain circumstances will normally justify prosecution to prevent the undermining of the service’s enforcement responsibilities.
  • Failure to comply with an Enforcement Notice
  • Declining a Simple Caution
  • Continued, reckless, negligent or pre-meditated non-compliance.
  • Failure to pay a fixed penalty.
  • Non-cooperation, acts of obstruction or threats of physical harm or abuse.
• Injunctions: Injunctive action as a means of preventing an activity or course of action likely to result in significant risk to public or community safety or economic wellbeing of consumers and businesses.

5.5

If the department is considering taking enforcement action which it believes may be inconsistent with that adopted by other authorities, the matter will be referred to the appropriate local co-ordinating body.

6.0 Informal warning

6.1 

Informal action may be taken when:

• the act or omission is not serious enough to warrant formal action, or
• from the individual's/enterprise's past history it can be reasonably expected that informal action will achieve compliance, or
• confidence in the individual/enterprise's management or ability to resolve the matter is high, or
• the consequences of non-compliance will not pose a significant risk to public health, public safety, animal welfare or the environment.

6.2

When an informal approach is used to secure compliance with regulations, written documentation issued will:

• contain all the information necessary to understand what is required and why;
• indicate the regulations contravened, measures which will enable compliance with legal requirements and that other means of achieving the same effect may be chosen;
• clearly differentiate between legal requirements and recommendations of good practice. Such a differentiation will also be made when verbal advice is given.

7.0 Simple cautions

7.1

A Simple Caution may be issued as an alternative to a prosecution. Cautions may be issued to:

• deal quickly and simply with less serious offences;
• divert less serious offences away from the courts;
• reduce the chances of repeat offences.

7.2

The following factors will be considered when deciding whether a caution is appropriate:-

• evidence of the suspect's guilt
• has a clear and reliable admission of the offence been made either verbally or in writing
• is it in the public interest to use a caution as the appropriate means of disposal when taking into account the public interest principles set out in the Code for Crown Prosecutors.
• the suspected offender must understand the significance of a simple caution and give an informed consent to being cautioned.

7.3

No pressure will be applied to a person to accept a Simple Caution.

7.4

The 'cautioning officer' will be the most appropriate officer from Service Director, Service Assistant Director, Head of Service Environmental Health Manager or Licensing Manager. The Cautioning Officer must not have taken an active part in investigating the case.

7.5

Should a person decline the offer of a simple caution a prosecution will be recommended.

8.0 Prosecution

8.1

The department recognises that the decision to prosecute is significant and could have far reaching consequences on the offender.

8.2

The decision to undertake a prosecution will be taken after proper consultation in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation for the council’s functions. The decision to proceed with a prosecution will normally be taken following legal advice. The matters to be taken into account when deciding if the issue of proceedings is proportionate include:

• the seriousness and nature of the alleged offence;
• the role of the suspect in the commission of the offence;
• any explanation by the suspect or any agent or third party acting on their behalf;
• was the suspect in a position of trust, responsibility or authority in relation to the commission of the offence;
• is there evidence of premeditation or disregard of a legal requirement for financial reward;
• risk of harm to the public, an individual or the environment;
• relevant previous history of compliance;
• reliability of evidence and witnesses
• any mitigating or aggravating circumstances or the likelihood that the suspect will be able to establish a defence;
• suspect’s willingness to prevent a recurrence of the offence;
• the need to influence future behaviour of the suspect;
• the likely penalty to be imposed; and
• a prosecution is in the public interest, there is realistic prospect of conviction and sufficient evidence to support proceedings.

8.3

All relevant evidence and information will be considered before deciding whether to instigate proceedings in order to enable a consistent, fair and objective decision to be made.

8.4

Where an act or omission is capable of constituting both a summary and either way offence, when deciding which offence to charge the following will be considered:

• the gravity of the offence;
• the adequacy or otherwise of the powers of the summary court to punish the offence;
• the record of the suspect;
• the suspect's previous response to advice or other enforcement action;
• the magnitude of the hazard;
• any circumstances causing particularly great public alarm;
• comments from the council's Solicitor’s Office.

8.5

As a general rule an individual or business will be given a reasonable opportunity to comply with the law although in some circumstances prosecution may be undertaken without giving prior warning, e.g.

• the contravention is a particularly serious one;
• the integrity of the licensing framework is threatened.

9.0 Home Office and Government Advice: Problem premises on probation

9.1

The licensing authority supports the strategies of interventions and tough conditions to be assembled into packages released in 2008. The current version is appended (appendix A).

10.0 Appeals

If any person is unhappy with the action taken, or information or advice given they will be given the opportunity of discussing the matter with the relevant team manager, Head of Service or Assistant Director.

Any such appeal does not preclude any aggrieved person from making a formal complaint about the service or any officers. Any such complaint will be dealt with in accordance with corporate procedures and guidance.

Complaints that are not dealt with by the council’s complaints procedure are listed in corporate policy and include:

• Complaints where the complainant or another person has commenced or intends to commence legal proceedings against the council.
• Complaints where the council has commenced or intends to commence legal proceedings against the complainant or another person relating to the matter of complaint

11.0 Shared enforcement roles

Lead agency status between Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and the council’s trading standards, environmental health and licensing officers are determined between the agencies at county level. The current position is appended (appendix H).

The problem

Supporting enforcement agencies

1. In many cases, revocation of a premises licence effectively kills any business which is focussed on retailing alcohol. This means that not only the business owner suffers, but most people working there will lose their livelihoods. Many of these workers will be entirely innocent of any wrong-doing. There is also an impact on those who rely indirectly on income from the premises – such as local food suppliers or cleaning contractors, and the closure of a premises can deprive some communities of their local shop or restrict local consumer choice. Enforcement agencies that apply for reviews and local councillors sitting on licensing committees are well aware of this potential impact and it can lead to a reluctance to use the powers in the act to revoke the licence instantly for any failure to promote the licensing objectives. This risks patchy enforcement and uneven solutions to alcohol-related problems around the country.
2. In addition, in many cases, enforcement agencies will prefer to negotiate additional voluntary conditions with problem premises against the threat of review as an immediate, pragmatic and less bureaucratic solution. While this may be a reasonable approach in many cases, there is a risk that some premises are not being dealt with as firmly as necessary, particularly given the level of test purchase failures. Nor are voluntary agreements particularly visible, lessening the deterrent effect on other premises.
3. Government wishes to support the enforcement agencies and licensing authorities by providing clear guidance on a “yellow card / red card” system, which would ensure a firm response to problems, but which give premises an opportunity to reform. The intention is that such a system would be highly visible and send a clear message to alcohol retailers, and the public, that action will be taken against those who act contrary to the licensing objectives and the law.
4. The proposed interventions below would not prevent the giving of an instant red card in an appropriately serious case. It should be realised that a “test purchase” failure often masks multiple offences that have gone undetected.

Supporting enforcement agencies

5. The government will encourage enforcement agencies – mainly the police, trading standards officers and environmental health officers – to seek more reviews in the knowledge of the yellow card/red card system described below. This will mean not giving formal warnings. It will mean that on identifying problem premises, the licensing authority will be engaged faster than it might have been in the past.
6. Enforcement agencies would be encouraged to seek reviews when local intelligence suggests that individual premises are selling to children or causing other crime problems or causing noise nuisance.
7. Under the law, the licensing authority must then hold a hearing so long as the application relates to one of the four licensing objectives and is made by a responsible authority or by other persons like a local resident or another local business.

First intervention

8. Responsible authorities will be encouraged to propose a package of touch new conditions to be added to the existing conditions which are designed to combat the identified problem. The kinds of conditions that we have in mind are set out in Annex A. These would not be appropriate for every premises and need to be tailored to the nature of the problem and the type of premises. Such action should be supplemented where appropriate by:
   • Removal of the designated premises supervisor and his/her replacement (the manager is removed)
   • Suspension of the licence for between one day and three months according to the circumstances.
   • Restriction on trading hours – cutting hours of trading in alcohol.
   • Clear warning that a further appearance will give rise to a presumption of revocation.
9. If appropriate following review, the licensing authority should consider these packages of conditions and action s to challenge problem premises more aggressively.
10. For example, requiring a major supermarket to make all alcohol sales through a single till manned by a person aged 25 years or older in order to tackle sales to underage. Over a year, this would potentially cost such a supermarket £millions. It would also make them reflect on their levels of supervision at other stores.
11. In addition, enforcement agencies should make the premises in question a priority for test purchases and more regular inspections.
12. The aim would be to put the premises on probation. Effectively, they are given a yellow card. They are put on notice that the next offence or breach would mean an automatic second intervention – a red card.

Second intervention

13. In the absence of improvement, enforcement agencies should seek another review. The licensing authority again must grant a hearing.
14. If satisfied on the issue of the lack of improvement, the licensing authority should look to revoke the licence. The action should be publicised in the area as an example to other retailers.

Implementation

15. Requires:
    • Development with the Home Office of a toolkit and guidance for police, trading standards and ethos;
    • Initial letters to Leaders of local authorities and Chief Executives;
    • Ultimately, stronger statutory Guidance to be laid in Parliament for licensing authorities themselves.
16. Central Government cannot tell licensing authorities what to do. The review powers are devolved to them. Similarly, central government cannot direct enforcement agencies how to enforce the law. It would remain their judgement when and how to act.

These would not be appropriate for every premises and need to be tailored to the nature of the problem and the type of premises.

Greater control over sale

1. Designated checkout(s) for alcohol sales (supermarket). Impact on protection of children from harm, but also impact on sales and goodwill (probable loss of trade to competitors).
2. Personal licence holder/DPS to be on site at all times during sales of alcohol. Impact on protection of children from harm and new costs if additional staff have to qualify as personal licence holder.
3. Personal licence holder/DPS to supervise and authorise every individual sale of alcohol. Impact on protection of children from harm and new costs if additional staff have to qualify as personal licence holder.
4. SIA registered security staff to be present at points of sales to support staff refusing sales to u-18s and drunks.
5. Alcohol sales only to be made only by person aged not less than 25 years. Impact on protection of children from harm, but also impact on sales and goodwill (probable loss of trade to competitors).
6. CCTV installed at all points of sale and recorded. Recordings can be examined by a constable or trading standards officer to determine sales to minors or drunks.
7. The licensed premises shall join the Business Crime Reduction Partnership scheme.

Training

8. All staff to read and sign a declaration that they understand the law every time they start a shift.
9. Train all staff engaged in selling alcohol in alcohol awareness (not just personal licence holders). All new staff to be trained within two weeks of commencing employment. Evidence of training to be retained in writing and to be available for inspection by any authorised person and training standards officers. Impact on all licensing objectives.

Alcohol sale banned at certain hours

10. No alcohol sales Monday to Friday between 4pm and 8.30pm. Impact on protection of children from harm or targeted hours reflecting times when local intelligence indicates under 18s may be purchasing alcohol.
11. No alcohol sales – Friday to Sunday. Impact on all four licensing objectives

Alcohol Displays

12. No displays of alcohol or advertising of alcohol promotions that can be seen from outside the premises.
13. No alcohol stocks promoted alongside goods likely to appeal to children (eg confectionary, toys).

Cutting down on shoplifting

14. SIA registered security staff to be present at alcohol aisles during opening times to prevent attempted under age sales or theft.
15. Location of alcohol stocks/displays not to be sited near the entrance/exit to deter shoplifting.
16. No direct public access to alcohol products – like tobacco, alcohol to be kept behind a dedicated kiosk.

Naming and shaming

17. Display an external sign/yellow card to state which of the licensing act objectives they have breached and what action has been taken against them.

Others

18. Maintain a log of all under age attempted purchases from those who appear to be under 18 or drunk.
19. Children aged under [18 years] not to be present or (not more than one child at any one time) on premises (other than children living on the premises or of the people working on the premises); or only children under 18 accompanied by an adult to be permitted on the premises during retailing hours. Impact on protection of children from harm.
20. Products to be labelled (a label stuck to the bottle or can) to show the details of the shop from which it was bought. Purpose would be to provide evidence of unlawful sales if product found commonly in possession of persons under 18.
21. Designated single items – beer, alcopops and cider – not to be sold to any person. Impact on protection of children from harm. Purpose would be to reduce sales to children and drunks. Alternative would be to prescribe sales of beer, alcopops and cider in quantities of less than four.
22. CCTV installed, monitored and 24 hour recordings kept for a week and made available to constables and persons authorised under the 2003 Act to help identify attempted proxy purchasing.
23. Where there is no designated smoking area, readmission after midnight should normally be prohibited.

1.1

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) and the Licensing Authority are the classification bodies for films shown in the city, and as such has the right to issue film classifications to films that are shown in premises such as cinemas and film festivals. The Licensing Authority can be requested to classify a film that has not yet been classified by the BBFC. A typical example of this would be a locally made film, such as a student production, to be shown at a film festival in the borough.

1.2

Under the Licensing Act 2003 any premises that has permission to show films as part of their permitted licensable activity, such as a cinema, has mandatory conditions attached to the licence regarding the exhibition of films.

1.3

Any classification issued by the Licensing Authority only applies when the film is exhibited within the city, and does not effect the classification in other areas.

1.4

A decision will be made at an officer level regarding the classification to be issued. This decision will be based on the BBFC guidelines. In sensitive cases, officers would consult with the Chair or Deputy.

1.5 Classification Requirements when films are not viewed in advance

Requests for an 18 certificate classification requirements be determined on an officer basis subject to the conditions shown below.. An 18 certificate would be issued based only on the synopsis of the film and would be appropriate in the following cases:

1. A film festival
2. A one off screening of a film
3. A trailer for a film

1.6

Any request to classify a film will be considered by the licensing authority and must be accompanied by both the synopsis of the film and a full copy of the film in DVD or video format.

1.7

All requests must be made with a minimum of 7 days notice of the proposed screening or 28 days for multiple requests.

Mandatory Conditions - Licensing Act 2003

The conditions detailed below are mandatory conditions required to be placed on all Premises Licenses where the showing of films is authorised under the Licensing Act 2003

Exhibition of films

S 20; mandatory condition: exhibition of films.

the admission of children is to be restricted in accordance with the following:

1. where the film classification body is specified in the licence, unless subsection (3)(b) of S 20 applies, admission of children must be restricted in accordance with any recommendation made by that body
2. where the film classification body is not specified, or [(S20 (3)(b)] the relevant licensing authority has notified the holder of the licence that this subsections applies to the film in question, admission of children must be restricted in accordance with any recommendation made by that licensing authority

Additional Conditions Attached to Cinema Licence

Conditions Attached to an 18 Certificate Film Classification Requirements where films have not been viewed in advance

The conditions listed below are attached by BHCC on all waivers to the film classification requirements:

1. The films must not encourage or incite crime; or lead to disorder; or stir up hatred against any section of the public in Great Britain on grounds of colour, race or ethnic or national origins, sexual orientation or sex; or promote sexual humiliation or degradation of or violence towards women.
2. The films must not have the effect such as to tend to deprave and corrupt persons who see them.
3. The films must not contain a grossly indecent performance thereby outraging the standards of public decency.
4. Persons under the age of 18 must not be admitted to any such film exhibitions.

Licensing Objective 1: Crime and Disorder

Licensing Objective 2: Public Safety:

Licensing Objective 3: Public Nuisance

Licensing Objective 4: Protection of Children from harm

Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA)

Background

The concept of Cumulative Impact has been described in the Home Office Guidance to the Licensing Act 2003 since the commencement of that Act. Cumulative Impact is defined as the potential impact upon the promotion of the licensing objectives of a significant number of licensed premises concentrated in one area.

In some areas where the number, type or density of licensed premises such as those selling alcohol or providing late night refreshment, is high or exceptional, serious problems of nuisance, crime and disorder may arise outside or some distance from those premises. Such problems generally occur as a result of large numbers of drinkers being concentrated in an area, for example when leaving premises at peak times or when queuing at fast food outlets or for public transport. These conditions are more likely to arise in city centres.

This should not, however, be confused with ‘need’ which relates more to the commercial demand for a particular type of premises. The issue of ‘need’ is therefore a matter for the market to decide and can, in some circumstances, be a matter for planning consideration; need therefore does not form part of this CIA.

CIA’s were introduced into the Licensing Act 2003, and thus given a statutory footing, by the Policing and Crime Act 2017 with effect from 6 April 2018. A CIA may be published by a licensing authority to help it to limit the number or types of licence applications granted in areas where there is evidence to show that the number or density of licensed premises in the area is having a cumulative impact and leading to problems which are undermining the licensing objectives.

Cumulative impact in Brighton & Hove – Special Policy

The licensing authority, after careful consideration, determined that the concentration of licensed premises in an area of the city centre was causing problems of crime and disorder and public nuisance, and that therefore an approach to ‘Cumulative Impact’ was necessary as part of its statement of licensing policy. The first Special Policy incorporating a Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) and Special Stress Areas (SSA’s) was adopted in March 2008. Since that date, the licensing authority has kept the CIZ and SSA’s under review. On 15 December 2011 Full Council resolved to expand the CIZ and the special stress area, covering 1.5% of the administrative area of Brighton & Hove City Council. On 20th November 2014 Licensing Committee resolved to confirm the current CIZ and SSA as defined in the current Statement of Licensing Policy. On the 29th November 2018 Licensing Committee resolved to expand the SSA into Central Hove.

This CIA incorporating the special policy will refer to a Cumulative Impact Zone (“the CIZ”) in the Brighton city centre, a detailed plan of which is shown below:

The Cumulative Impact Zone comprises the area bounded by and including: the north side of Western Road, Brighton from its intersection with the west side of Holland Road to the junction with the west side of Dyke Road at its eastern end; from there, north-east to the junction of the north side of Air Street with the west side of Queens Road and then northward to the north-west corner of Surrey Street junction with Queens Road; thence along the north side of Trafalgar Street eastwards to its junction with York Place and continuing south-east across to Grand Parade, then south to the junction of Edward Street; along the north side of Edward Street to the east side of its junction with Egremont Place and southward along the eastern sides of Upper Rock Gardens and Lower Rock Gardens; southward to the mean water mark and following the mean water line westward to a point due south of the west boundary of Holland Road; northward to that point and along the west side of Holland Road to its northwest boundary and then diagonally across Western Road to its intersection with the west side of Holland Road.

The CIA and special policy

The Licensing Authority continues to consider that the number of licensed premises in the CIZ is such that it is likely that granting further licences would be inconsistent with the authority’s duty to promote the licensing objectives.

This CIA and special policy is thus setting down a strong statement of intent about its approach to considering applications for the grant or variation of premises licences or club premises certificates in the CIZ.

The special policy will only be overridden in exceptional circumstances. The effect of this special policy is that applications for new premises licences or club premises certificates within the area, or variations which are likely to add to the existing Cumulative Impact, will be refused following relevant representations. This presumption can be rebutted by the applicant if they can show that their application will have no negative Cumulative Impact/ will not add to cumulative impact.

This special policy also applies to all new premises licences and club premises certificates, for example pubs, restaurants and take-away establishments. Off licences also come within this policy as they can contribute to problems of street drinking, proxy purchasing, dispersal issues, preloading and excessive drinking and related disorder.

The presumption of refusal does not relieve responsible authorities or other persons of the need to make a relevant representation. If there are no representations, the licensing authority must grant the application in terms consistent with the operating schedule submitted.

Furthermore, this special policy is not absolute. Upon receipt of a relevant representation, the licensing authority will always consider the circumstances of each case and whether there are exceptional circumstances to justify departing from its special policy in the light of the individual circumstances of the case. If an application is unlikely to add to the cumulative impact of the area, it may be granted. The impact can be expected to be different for premises with different styles and characteristics. For example, while a large nightclub or high capacity public house might add to problems of cumulative impact, a small restaurant, theatre or live music venue (where alcohol is not the primary activity) may be considered exceptional circumstances. The fact that a premises will be/is exceptionally well managed with a well-qualified applicant, or that there are no residential premises nearby, will not be considered exceptional. Applications for premises within the CIZ should give consideration to potential cumulative impact issues when setting out the steps that will be taken to promote the licensing objectives.

The Matrix approach: The licensing authority has published within its statement of licensing policy a framework of what types of premises it would like to see in the CIZ and which it believes are less likely to add to problems of cumulative impact in the area. Such premises include a restaurant until midnight, a café to 10 pm and favourable consideration to non-alcohol led premises such as theatres.

If the licensing authority decides that an application should be refused, it will still need to show that the grant of the application would undermine the promotion of one of the licensing objectives and that conditions would be ineffective in preventing the problems involved.

Evidence and support for the CIA, special policy and CIZ

Since it was first introduced in 2008 the Special policy has had widespread support from the responsible authorities – police and licensing authority, from residents and residents associations and from local councillors. Successive reviews of the policy have shown that it remains relevant and necessary. For residents the areas within the CIZ of most concern are the North Laine, St James’s Street and the Norfolk Square and Brunswick areas. The North Laine Community Association (NLCA) has consistently put forward evidence at

Licensing Panels about the impact that the increase in licensed premises in this area has had on the licensing objectives notably that of prevention of public nuisance and Crime and Disorder. Likewise Kingscliffe Society representing St James’ Street residents has consistently made representations as have residents in the Norfolk Square and Brunswick area.

For the purposes of this CIA the police have compiled a report to support the continuation of the current special policy. The report highlights the policing challenges of the night-time economy and the work of the special task force ‘Operation Marble’. This is attached as annex 1.

The public health team at the Council has provided evidence in a series of maps to illustrate the number and types of premises and associated crime and disorder. This is attached at annex 2.

Sussex Police Summary for Proposed Changes to the Statement of Licensing Policy 2021

Operation Marble

Due to the large concentration of licensed premises and night clubs in the centre of Brighton, a high proportion of the Division’s violent crime and serious sexual offences are committed within a relatively small area. The Division receives a large influx of visitors to the city centre at weekends. Many of these people attend the pubs and night-clubs during night time hours and as a result an enhanced policing operation is provided, called Op Marble. Traditionally this ran from 2100hrs through to 0400hrs on a Friday and Saturday night but since a review in 2017 has run from 20:00 to 06:00 between 1st May and 30th September. This was in response to pressures from the Night Time Economy as pubs and clubs remained open later and increases in crimes in the earlier hours of the morning. The emphasis of Op Marble is a highly visible presence of officers deployed on foot as well as focus on regularly updated hot spots to help reduce the risk of violent crimes. Recent data analysis (as shown below) has confirmed that these hot spots fall within the CIZ and extend out into the SSA.

In recent years, Police have seen some changes to the patterns of the Night Time economy. Halloween is now a significant event in the calendar and so there are a number of standalone operations such as the Halloween weekend, Bank Holidays, New Year’s Eve and Pride in order to reduce risk with an adjusted Police presence/response. In the run up to Christmas, additional resources are at times deployed during the end of week to monitor Christmas Parties.

Op Marble covers an area between Preston Street to the West – The Level to the North – Kemptown to the East and the seafront between West Pier and Concorde 2 to the South. This covers the majority of the Cumulative Impact Zone and is regularly under review to ensure that limited Police resources are being used to their optimum.

Hotspot Maps and Police analysis to support continuation of the current footprint of CIZ and SSA within the new Cumulative Impact Assessment that is being formulated.

As part of Operation Marble (Sussex Police response/policing of the Night Time Economy) several pieces of work have been carried out to identify where serious violent crimes hotspots are – both within the time period of Op Marble and outside the time period of Op Marble.

The Op Marble times are as follows:

Friday: 8pm to 12am

Saturday: 12:01 am to 6am and 8pm to 12am

Sunday: 12:01 am to 6am

Total hours: 20

As of 5 May 2020, there were two data sets that have been examined. The first being the period from 1 June 2019 until 15 October 2019 (so the Summer months) and a second period covering 1 January 2020 until 31 March 2020 (winter months). The two periods offer an opportunity for comparison and analysis relating to hot spots and trends in the city centre and beyond.

The scope for ‘serious violent crimes’ includes crimes categorised as ABH and above, including but not limited to, sexual assault, serious sexual assault, knife crime, robbery. It is also of note that

incidents of domestic assault and domestic violence has been excluded from the Marble time data but included within the non-Marble time data.

‘A caveat to be mentioned– the results collected depend on the accuracy of the individuals recording and updating information onto police systems. The searches will only bring back results if they are there.’

A number of maps can be used to demonstrate what these hot spots look like and how the CIZ and SSA relate to these. During the summer months, the hot spot for serious violence offences outside the Op Marble times is still focused within the city centre as can be seen in Map 1. The highest affected area can be seen around North Street and Bond Street area, which is the very heart and centre of the CIZ area. Within the Marble timings (Maps 3 and 5) this hot spot for serious violence offences shifts South to the seafront, West Street, Middle Street and North Street where it is known there is a high density of licensed premises. The seafront and West Street in particular have a number of late night opening clubs and bars.

During the winter months, we see a similarly located hot spot for outside the Op Marble times (Map 2), with the focus slightly shifted to encompass West Street, North Street and Boyce’s Street as well as the northern ends of Ship Street and Middle Street. Western Road has also been identified as a high harm area. Within the Marble timings (Maps 4 and 6) the highest area for harm is again the very heart of the city with the very centre of the red area being North Street/West Street extending south to beyond the seafront and north to above Gloucester Road.

These hotspot maps support the current location and boundaries of the CIZ and SSA as they can be seen to encompass the violent crime hotspots both within the night time economy timings (Op Marble) and outside of them such as day time during the week.

Key to Maps

The red squares represent an individual event of crime during the time period mentioned. So each red square is equivalent to one serious violent crime.

The colours overlaid on the maps represent crime number density as follows:

The current footprint of the CIZ is shown with a thick black line and the SSA with a thick purple line. Please note these maps are not to an exact scale and are used for illustrative purposes only.

Map 1a: 1 June 2019 to 15 October 2019 Outside of Marble Time Data

Map 1b: 1 June 2019 to 15 October 2019 Outside of Marble Time Data (City Wide):

Map 2a: 1 January 2020 to 31 March 2020 Outside of Marble time data 

Map 2b: 1 January 2020 to 31 March 2020 Outside of Marble Time Data (City Wide)

Map 3: 1 June 2019 to 15 October 2019 Marble Time Frame Data

Map 4: 1 January 2020 to 31 March 2020 Marble Time Frame Data

Map 5: 1 June 2019 to 15 October 2019 Marble Time Frame Data (close up)

Map 6: 1 January 2020 to 31 March 2020 Marble Time Frame Data (close up)

Timings and the Matrix Approach

There continues to be an increasing demand for Police resources further into the early hours of the morning with the highest concentration of crimes occurring between 9pm and 6am on a Friday into a Saturday and between 8pm and 6am on a Saturday night into a Sunday during the summer months (Data Set 1). This summer data also shows that up to 80% of arrests made in the Marble timeframe 8pm to 6am on these days were affected by alcohol.

The winter months (Data Set 2) show a slightly different trend, likely affected by both colder, wetter weather and then the onset of Covid-19. The hours where the highest proportion of violent crimes are the early hours of 12am to 1am across the week. This is a common time for many feeder pubs/bars to close so individuals choose to head home or move onto another later night venue. Brighton & Hove is also a University town and the student population will have an impact on the midweek figures due to student nights and other student focused events. The links to alcohol in the winter data is broken down as follows:

• 52.3% of individuals were affected by alcohol and/or drugs
• 45.5% were recorded as ‘not known’
• 2.1% were recorded as ‘not affected’

It is important to note however that the data drawn from Police systems relies on the Officer inputting it to flag it as ‘alcohol/drug’ related so the true number in incidents involving alcohol and/or drugs may be much higher.

When looking at just the data for the Op Marble timings within Data Set 2 however (Table 3), a similar concentration of crime timings is seen to Data Set 1, with the highest risk periods being between 8pm and 4am on a Friday into a Saturday and 11pm and 2am (with a smaller rise between 4am and 6am) on a Saturday night into a Sunday morning.

This highlights the need for a continuation of the Cumulative Impact Area and Special Stress Area as well as the matrix and timings approach within it. By limiting the type of new premises as well as their terminal hour for licensable activity, there is a chance to reduce some of the cumulative risk posed by having a larger and larger number of licensed premises all closing at similar times in the same area.

Key to tables

Data Set 1: 1 June 2019 to 16 October 2019

Weekdays

Weekends

Data Set 2: 1 January 2020 to 31 March 2020

Weekdays

Weekends

Data Set 3: Data solely within Op Marble Timings of Data Set 2 .

Overall commentary on mapping work undertaken so far

Data for 2018/19 for police recorded violence against the person offences which have occurred outside of the home, police recorded criminal damage offences, as well as noise complaints to the local authority regarding licensed premises all continue to show clear city centre hotspots which all sit within the current Cumulative Impact Zone and Special Stress Area boundary and support maintaining these boundaries.

Wards with the highest rate of adults in alcohol treatment are also focused in the city centre (Queen’s park, Regency and St. Peter’s and North Laine wards) and are further evidence for maintaining the current Cumulative Impact Zone and Special Stress area boundaries.

Data for alcohol related A&E attendances, alcohol related ambulance call-outs, and police recorded alcohol related incidents are currently outstanding, but we hope this will soon be available to help inform this work.

Specific NTE commentary

Specific analysis has been undertaken to look at police recorded violence against the person and sexual offences that have occurred within the Cumulative Impact Zone and Special Stress Area at times of day and days of the week that are most closely associated with the night-time economy.

Analysis of violence against the person offences that occurred outside of the home showed that there were 698 offences which occurred either within the CIZ or SSA between 10pm and 5am on a Friday and Saturday night in 2018/19. This compared with 775 offences in 2017/18, a reduction of 9.9%.

There were 74 sexual offences that occurred in either the CIZ or SSA area between 11pm and 6am on a Friday and Saturday night in 2018/19. This was an increase from 57 the previous year.