New licence laws for pub and grub (From Gazette Series)

New licence laws for pub and grub

LATE-NIGHT takeaways will need to be licensed and pubs will no longer be able to employ single musicians without the official nod.

These are just two of the changes expected in the Government's overhaul of the licensing laws.

As the law stands takeaways can stay open as late as they like since they do not need an entertainments licence and landlords can hire in one or two musicians without needing to go through the licensing process.

But if the new legislation goes through all that is set to change.

"The main difference will be that Stroud District Council will become the licensing authority for the area taking over the functions presently done by the magistrates courts," said Mike Lewis, the council's licensing officer.

He said other changes would tidy up the existing system, so a single premises would only need a single licence rather than applying separately for drinks and entertainment licences.

"It's more of a one size fits all system," he said.

The new laws are unlikely to come into effect until next year then there will be a six month bedding down period during which existing licence holders will be allowed to continue operating until they apply for a new licence from the council.

Mr Lewis and licensing administrator Rachel Andrew will now have to chase up the 470 licensed premises in the district.

"It's a lot of work," said Mr Lewis.

"But most of the pub landlords will already be aware of the situation through the industry and their own network."