Licensing taskforce report and government response

The Government has published its response to the industry-led licensing taskforce.  

The taskforce was set up to review the current licensing system under the Licensing Act 2003. The taskforce concluded on 16 May 2025 and provided government with 10 priority recommendations to consider.

The licensing taskforce terms of reference and membership page provides more information on the taskforce, including the purpose and scope.

A summary of the Government’s response

1. National Licensing Policy Framework
The government supports the creation of a National Licensing Policy Framework to improve consistency and transparency across local authorities. It recognises the value of a framework that provides clear national direction while preserving local discretion, and intends to consult further on how best to align licensing with broader government priorities.

2. Licence ‘Amnesty’
The government agrees that a licence ‘amnesty’ could help modernise and streamline existing licences. It sees merit in reviewing and removing outdated or disproportionate conditions, particularly those inherited from the original implementation of the Licensing Act 2003, and will explore how best to target premises where conditions no longer reflect current operations.

3. Longer Licensing Terms for Pavement Areas
The government is open to extending the duration of pavement licences to give businesses greater certainty and support long-term planning. It acknowledges the benefits of stability for recurring events and will consider this recommendation as part of wider licensing reforms.

4. Temporary Event Notice (TEN) Limits
The government recognises the need for greater flexibility in the use of temporary event notices. It will review current limits and explore options to make the system more responsive to the needs of operators, while maintaining safeguards for public safety and local communities.

5. Agent of Change Principle
The government supports strengthening the agent of change principle in licensing decisions. It agrees that established venues should be protected from the impact of new developments nearby and will consider how to embed this principle more consistently across licensing and planning systems.

6. Hospitality and Night-Time Economy Zones
The government is interested in exploring the creation of designated hospitality and night-time economy zones. It sees potential in supporting local authorities to develop vibrant, well-managed areas that promote economic growth and cultural activity.

7. Licence Length and Fees for Festivals
The government acknowledges the value of reviewing licence durations and fees for festivals. It recognises the importance of providing certainty for recurring events and supporting long-term investment, and will consider this area further in future reforms.

8. Grandfathered Conditions Review
The government agrees that reviewing grandfathered conditions is a timely and necessary step. It supports efforts to ensure that licensing conditions reflect current operational realities and do not unnecessarily constrain businesses.

9. Licensing Data and Transparency
The government supports improving access to licensing data to enhance transparency and accountability. It will explore how better data sharing between authorities and stakeholders can support more effective decision-making and public engagement.

10. Licensing Training and Capacity Building
The government acknowledges the importance of training and capacity building for licensing officers and decision-makers. It will consider how to support local authorities in developing the skills and resources needed to implement licensing policy effectively and consistently.