Calling time on festive fun (From Stroud News and Journal)

Calling time on festive fun

PUBS, clubs and takeaways in Stroud could be closed for Christmas and New Year because the owners are unaware of a change in licensing law.

From November 2005, all existing liquor and public entertainment licenses will be invalid.

This includes late night food outlets such as kebab vans.

If landlords fail to submit applications for a new license by August 5, they may find themselves out of business during the festive season.

Stroud District Council estimates that 1300 businesses and individuals in the area will need to apply for a license but it has only received 79 applications - the majority of which have had to be sent back for amendments.

Under the new legislation, the council, rather than the magistrates court, will now decide whether or not applications are successful.

Every licensed premises in the UK will have the opportunity to apply for a variation to their opening times, under the new relaxation of hours allowed. All applications must be advertised in a local newspaper.

A spokeswoman from Stroud District Council's Licensing Department said: "Stroud District Council Licensing Authority estimate that in our area we should be receiving in excess of 400 premises licences and club certificates and in excess of 900 personal licences.

"However we have only received 30 Premises Licences and 49 Club Premises Licences so far.

"At least 80 per cent of the 30 premises licences and club premises licences received so far have needed amendments or additional information.

"In addition seven applications have been completely rejected and returned to the applicant."

Ian Morrison, owner of The Retreat In Stroud said he did know about the new legislation but had not yet completed his application.

Mr Morrison said: "It is a very complicated piece of legislation, and at £350 a time you don't want to get it wrong.

"I think many of the takeaways might not realise it applies to them.

"This has revolutionised the industry. I don't think most of the owners want to open later but if you don't apply for a 12 o'clock license and every other bar does you're going to be very empty by 11 o'clock."