Licensing rules consultation seeks to raise public engagement

The rules surrounding alcohol licence applications, objections and hearings are under review by the Scottish Government, and a consultation has been opened on what changes are needed.

The Licensing (Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 2007 have now been in force for 10 years and ministers are considering how they should be updated.

In particular they would welcome views regarding the regulations relating to the public notification process, as it has been suggested that there appears to be a lack of community engagement and low levels of public participation in the licensing process in many areas throughout Scotland. Improving public notification of licensing applications is one possible course. However, feedback will be accepted on other parts of the regulations.

Four questions in the consultation ask whether the neighbour notification provisions should be updated; whether any other of the regulations should be updated; whether respondents have any other concerns regarding the regulations; and whether they are aware of any examples of good practice relating to the regulations.

The likely costs and benefits of any proposed changes will be considered to establish if they are workable and proportionate.

Click here to access the consultation. The deadline for responses is 6 June 2018.