Licensing Policy

The Licensing Policy is aimed at residents businesses and interested parties who will be affected by Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council's new responsibilities for licensing the sale of alcohol, public entertainment, and late night cafes/restaurants and takeaways. Under the Licensing Act 2003 there is a legal requirement for the Council to publish a Licensing Policy. Tameside's policy was approved by Council on the 4th January 2005. The current Licensing Act 2003 requires Tameside MBC, every 3 years to carry out a review of its Statement of Licensing Policy. The new licensing policy has now been revised and was approved by the Council on 15th January 2008.

This revised Licensing policy has been updated to reflect the Council’s experience of the Licensing Act 2003. Where possible we have sought to incorporate the views of statutory agencies, business representatives and local residents. It also reflects new guidance issued by Department of Culture, Media and Sport. The policy continues to support the council vision of working to promote the wellbeing of the people of the Borough. It has undoubtedly helped provide a safer and more attractive environment for the residents.

For businesses and community activities that are organised and managed responsibly with the 4 Licensing objectives clearly demonstrated the Act provides for a lighter touch enabling resources to be concentrated where there are premises causing nuisance and contributing towards crime and disorder.

The Act currently allows for responsible authorities and interested parties to seek a review of the premise license a process that has been used with success with the Tameside Area. The Act has empowered the local community and brought about a joined up partnership approach to addressing problems.

The Act makes it possible for groups to organise events for the benefit of the community on a one-off basis helping to encourage pride and participation in neighbourhoods.

A copy of the Licensing Policy can be viewed and printed off here 1.34 MB

The Council has also published a Guide to the Management of Noise from Licensed Premises 149.02 KB which can be viewed or printed here.