Issue - meetings

Members were asked to consider, note and recommend to Council that the proposed Licensing Act 2003 Statement of Licensing Policy Review is adopted.

Under the Licensing Act 2003 local authorities must develop and review their Statement of Licensing Policy at least every five years. The revised policy provides a pragmatic and fair approach to all those working within the licensable activity sector, whilst continuing to meet the statutory obligations under the Licensing Act 2003.

A copy of the proposed Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Statement of Licensing Policy is available on the Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council website, Stockton Statement of Licensing Act Policy 2026.

The proposed Statement of Licensing Policy reflects legislation, best practice  and integrates the recently published National Licensing Policy Framework which is a strategic vision for a modern, permissive licensing system that safeguards communities while enabling hospitality and leisure to thrive, and is aligned with the licensing objectives which are:

. the prevention of crime and disorder

. public safety

. the prevention of public nuisance

. the protection of children from harm

The proposed Statement of Licensing Policy supports the Councils vision and priorities and includes information on

. Martyn's Law (Protect Duty)

. Illegal employment practices

. Local alcohol related harm

The proposed Statement of Licensing Policy reinforces our commitment to:

. Partnership working including Pubwatch

. Proactive enforcement around alcohol harm including underage sales and early morning sales

. Engagement and compliance with the trade including the Reducing the Strength scheme

. Developing a responsible retailer guide that can be updated and remain current outside of the 5 year policy cycle

For statutory consultation the proposed Statement of Licensing Policy was circulated for response to:

. Responsible authorities under the Licensing Act 2003 including the Police

. All members

. Internal and external stakeholders

. All current licence holders in the hospitality trade

The proposed Statement of Licensing Policy was advertised to the public on the licensing website and social media pages. Comments were asked to be received by 31 May 2026.

No comments objecting to the proposed policy were received. Comments were received from the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner (OPCC) via the Cleveland Unit for the Reduction of Violence (CURV). The comments and proposed additional policy wording were contained within the officer’s main report.

The Chair thanked the Trading Standards & Licensing Services Manager for the report and highlighted how positive the ‘Reducing the strength Scheme’ had been in the Borough.

RESOLVED that:

1. Members note the content of this report.

2. Members recommend to Council the proposed Licensing Act 2003 Statement of Licensing Policy is adopted.