Consultation on renewal of Newmarket alcohol licensing policy

Residents and alcohol licence holders in the centre of Newmarket are being asked if they wish to retain a policy designed to help businesses while reducing the impact of any antisocial behaviour on the town centre.

The current policy applies to a Cumulative Impact Assessment covering the High Street area of Newmarket.

It means that businesses applying for increased alcohol trading hours may need to provide evidence of how they plan to manage the impact on the local community, for example with extra door security before being granted a licence.

The policy was first introduced in 2008, and renewed in 2011, 2016 and 2018. Under law, it must be reviewed by the end of 2021 and will lapse if not renewed.

West Suffolk Council, as the licensing authority, is seeking to gather evidence from the public and trade to support a decision on whether it should be retained, with consultation due to start on May 17.

John Griffiths, the leader of West Suffolk Council said: “Newmarket town centre has changed considerably since the Cumulative Impact Assessment was first set up. The number and character of late-night opening establishments, which were frequently a focal point for crime and anti-social behaviour have changed. And crime in the area is declining, with more incidents during daylight hours.

“We are consulting to gather evidence from businesses, residents and partners on which to make a decision on whether to renew the policy or not. To be retained, the evidence must show that the cumulative impact of the number and concentration of licensed premises in the area continue to adversely impact residents and businesses and undermine our licensing objectives of preventing nuisance, crime and disorder. I invite everyone with an interest to take part by going to www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/consultations by 28 June.’

Andy Drummond, cabinet member for Planning and Regulatory, added: “We are very aware of the impact the pandemic has had on the hospitality trade and have worked with the sector from the first moment of lockdown. We continue to support local businesses as part of a healthy local economy and will be contacting them direct to get their views.”

The consultation covers licences for on and off premises alcohol sales and launches as the hospitality industry begins to reopen, following the government’s roadmap out of lockdown.

The West Suffolk Licensing Team is contacting all affected licence holders to make sure they have the chance to have their say. Local business organisations will also be asked for their evidence. Residents Associations and local community networks are also being contacted, to pass the opportunity to comment on to members, and to make representations on their behalf.

The consultation last six weeks until June 28, after which the evidence will be analysed and presented to the cabinet for decision making later in the year. www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/consultations