Premises Licence Review Hearing Representation

​

A Premises Licence Review Hearing may be initiated following an incident, complaint, or concerns raised about how a premises is operating. Where a review is threatened or commenced, we strongly recommend seeking specialist representation at the earliest possible stage to protect the licence and achieve the best possible outcome.

​

Premises Licence Reviews are heard by the Licensing Sub-Committee and focus on whether the premises licence holder has appropriate and sufficient measures in place to promote the four licensing objectives.

​

In practice, reviews arise when something has gone wrong, or is alleged to have gone wrong, at the premises. A review is a serious regulatory matter and can place the future of the business at risk. Our experienced Licensing Consultants provide professional representation and strategic advice throughout the review process.

​

Common Reasons for a Premises Licence Review

Reviews are commonly brought in relation to one or more of the licensing objectives, including:

​

Prevention of Crime and Disorder

• Drug-related issues

• Violence or disorder

• Failure to comply with licence conditions

• Sales outside permitted hours

• Employment of persons not entitled to work in the UK

​

Public Safety

• Exceeding permitted capacity

• Fire safety breaches

• Poor premises maintenance

​

Prevention of Public Nuisance

• Noise complaints

• Inadequate dispersal arrangements

• Waste and litter issues

​

Protection of Children from Harm

• Sales of alcohol to persons under 18

• Failure to operate effective age-verification controls

• Unrestricted access to age-restricted entertainment

​

It is often advisable to seek advice even where a review has only been threatened. Early engagement can sometimes prevent a review proceeding by agreeing voluntary measures or remedial action.

​

The Review Process

​

At a review hearing, the party bringing the review will seek changes to the Premises Licence or may ask for it to be suspended or revoked.

​

It is also important to note that additional parties may join a review during the statutory 28-day consultation period. As a result, a review that begins with a single applicant can attract support from multiple Responsible Authorities or members of the public by the time of the hearing.

​

Our consultants have extensive experience representing premises across London and the South East in review proceedings brought for a wide range of reasons.

​

How We Deliver Representation

To give clients the strongest possible position, early instruction is strongly advised.

​

Step 1 – Review Assessment

​

Once instructed, we examine the review application, supporting evidence, and any correspondence with Responsible Authorities.

​

Step 2 – Early Engagement

​

Where possible, we engage with the party bringing the review to explore whether issues can be resolved without the need for a hearing. Even where this is not achievable, narrowing the issues in dispute is often beneficial.

​

Step 3 – Preparation

​

We develop a detailed understanding of the premises, its history, and the concerns raised. We prepare and submit evidence, documentation, and written submissions in advance of the hearing and brief the client on their role.

​

Step 4 – Representation at the Hearing

​

Review hearings may take place in person or remotely. Our Licensing Consultant will act as agent and will:

• Present the case on behalf of the premises licence holder

• Respond to questions from the Sub-Committee and other parties

• Deliver a structured summing-up

While applicants are rarely required to speak extensively, the Sub-Committee may wish to hear directly from the Premises Licence Holder or Designated Premises Supervisor. In such cases, we provide clear guidance to ensure responses remain focused and appropriate.

​

Step 5 – Decision

​

The Licensing Sub-Committee may decide to:

• Take no action and allow the licence to continue unchanged

• Modify licence conditions

• Reduce permitted hours or licensable activities

• Remove the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS)

• Suspend the licence for up to three months

• Revoke the Premises Licence

A decision is often given on the day or issued in writing, typically within five working days.

​

Step 6 – Post-Decision Review

​

Where a licence is retained with amendments, we review the updated Premises Licence to ensure accuracy and address any anomalies.

​

Premises Licence Review Representation Fees

• Professional Representation Fee: from £800

​

A full breakdown of fees is available in the Service Fees section.

​