Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 allows the Secretary of State to issue statutory guidance to licensing authorities. In simple terms, it is official guidance that councils must consider when carrying out their licensing functions. It does not replace the Licensing Act 2003, but it helps explain how the Act should be applied in practice.

Applying for a new premises licence can feel like a straightforward process. You complete the application form, prepare the plans, advertise the application, and wait for the outcome. However, in practice, small mistakes at the application stage can lead to delays, objections from responsible authorities, additional conditions, or even a licensing sub-committee hearing.

Under the Licensing Act 2003, licensed premises must promote the four licensing objectives. One of those objectives is the prevention of public nuisance. Licensing authorities must carry out their functions with a view to promoting those objectives, including public nuisance prevention.

A fine can hurt, but a premises licence review can be even more damaging. If the police, council or another responsible authority believes the premises is undermining the licensing objectives, they may call for a review.