Licensing Professionals Latest News- Licensing Act 2025 Consultation

Licensing Professionals Latest News — November Licensing Act 2025 Consultation

It’s been a busy few months in the world of licensing, with major national reviews and local consultations underway. The Government is re-examining how the Licensing Act 2003 operates, and there are fresh discussions about transparency, digital notifications, and how local policies should evolve.

Here’s what every licensing professional should know right now about the Licensing Act 2025 Consultation

1. Government launches major review of the Licensing Act 2003

The Home Office and Department for Business and Trade have launched a call for evidence (closing 6 November 2025) to reform the Licensing Act 2003 system.(Sources: GOV.UK, Institute of Licensing (IoL), Travel and Tour World)

The goal is to build a “modern, proportionate and enabling licensing system” that better supports the night-time economy and hospitality sector.

Key themes under review

• Creation of a National Licensing Policy Framework (NLPF) to reduce inconsistencies between local authorities.

• An amnesty for outdated or redundant licence conditions.

• Extended pavement/outdoor trading rights for licensed premises.

• A review of Temporary Event Notice (TEN) limits and processes.

The review covers the on-trade — pubs, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs — as well as all regulated entertainment under the Act.

Why it matters

For licensing professionals, this could mean:

• New policy frameworks that simplify national and local guidance.

• Streamlined application and review procedures.

• More flexibility for businesses seeking to innovate.

🗓️ Action point: Submit feedback to the Government’s consultation before 6 November 2025 and stay alert for draft policy updates that may follow.

2. Plans to scrap printed statutory notices for alcohol licences

One of the most talked-about proposals within the reform review is the plan to remove the requirement for printed statutory notices in local newspapers when applying for or varying alcohol licences.(Sources: Lancaster Guardian, Local Government Lawyer)

The debate

• The Government says this change will cut costs and speed up the process by moving to digital notifications.

• Local newspapers and some community groups argue it could reduce transparency, particularly for residents who don’t access information online.

Implications for licensing work

• Applicants may benefit from lower advertising costs and simpler administration.

• However, digital-only consultation could attract criticism or even challenge from residents claiming they were not properly notified.

• Professionals should prepare to advise clients on best-practice digital consultation and monitor how each local authority implements these changes.

3. Industry reaction — “A once-in-a-generation opportunity”

Trade body UKHospitality has welcomed the Government’s review, calling it a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to modernise the Licensing Act.(Source: Restaurant Online)

Key industry points

• Reform shouldn’t just focus on extending opening hours but on reducing friction and modernising conditions.

• The sector wants a licensing regime that supports innovation — from flexible event spaces to more outdoor trading.

4. Local policy updates — Statement of Licensing Policy reviews

At the same time as national reforms, several councils are reviewing their Statements of Licensing Policy (SLP) — the documents that guide local decision-making.

Examples include:

• Solihull Council, consulting on its 2026–2031 SLP with a focus on the “agent of change” principle, drink spiking awareness, and outdoor trading.(Source: Solihull.gov.uk)

• Knowsley Council, which has just approved a draft SLP for 2026–2030 reflecting similar themes.

Why it matters

• Local policies translate national guidance into real-world practice — what your authority says will shape how applications are assessed.

• Now is the time for licensees and practitioners to review local drafts, submit comments, and plan ahead for the next policy cycle.

• Training providers should update materials to reflect new policy emphasis areas, such as spiking prevention and outdoor service.