Statement of Licensing Policy (2008) WCC - Westminster City Council

Introduction/definitions2.5.12 These policies apply to premises being used exclusively or primarily for the supply ofalcohol for consumption on those premises. It excludes music and dance premisesand other premises as defi ned in separate policies. The Stress Area boundaries areshown on these maps at Appendix 15.Public houses and bars outside the Stress AreasPolicy PB1Applications will only be granted if it can be demonstrated that the proposal meets therelevant criteria in Policies CD1, PS1, PN1 and CH1.Public Houses and Bars in the Stress AreasPolicy PB2It is the Licensing Authority’s policy to refuse applications in the Stress Areas otherthan applications to vary hours within the Core Hours under Policy HRS1.Reasons for Policies PB1 & PB22.5.13 The wide variety of pubs and bars are part of Westminster’s offer of entertainment andprovide for residents and for people working in and visiting the city. They also providevenues for live music which, aside from its cultural benefi ts and its enjoyment bycustomers, often has a positive effect on licensing objectives. However, premises thatprimarily serve alcohol, with or without the provision of any ancillary playing of music,can give rise to public nuisance for residents and other businesses, particularly wherethere is a concentration of such premises. This is principally due to noise from thepremises and from patrons when they leave. Pubs and bars present opportunities forcrime and they can also give rise to disorder.542.5.14 This is of particular concern in Stress Areas where there had been a growth in thenumber of premises that primarily serve alcohol, resulting in or adding to cumulativeimpact. On this basis, the Licensing Authority considers that the grant of variations ornew licences for pubs and bars in the Stress Areas should be limited to exceptionalcircumstances. See paragraphs 2.4.2 -2.4.5 on exceptional circumstances. Theprovision of a bar within a workplace solely for the use of those working there and theirinvited guests, will generally be regarded as an exception to the policy not to grantnew bars in the Stress Areas. Regard will be had to other policies in this Statementand the hours of operation of the workplace, the hours and extent of the use of the barand the effect on cumulative impact in the Stress Areas. The off sale of alcohol anddrinking outside the premises would also be of concern.