LGA calls for “inclusive, balanced and democratic licensing reform

The Local Government Association (LGA) has called on the Government to rethink its approach to alcohol licensing reform, stressing that changes must safeguard community wellbeing and uphold local democratic accountability.

The Government’s fast-track review of the Alcohol Licensing Act 2003 has reignited debate over who should decide how alcohol is sold and consumed in local areas. While proposals promise to “modernise” licensing rules, the LGA warns that reforms shaped largely by hospitality and night-time economy representatives risk sidelining councillors, police, licensing officers and public health directors.

Among the measures under consideration are streamlined licensing processes, extended opening hours, and reduced scrutiny of applications. The LGA cautions that such changes could significantly alter the character of high streets, town centres and residential neighbourhoods, with knock-on effects for noise, anti-social behaviour, alcohol-related harm and community cohesion.

Councils argue that licensing decisions are not just technical but deeply political, requiring a balance between economic growth and public wellbeing. A proposed national licensing framework, while simplifying processes for businesses, could strip local authorities of the flexibility they need to respond to unique community pressures.

The LGA also highlights that many challenges facing the hospitality sector—such as rising energy costs, workforce shortages and shifting consumer behaviour—are structural and not caused by licensing rules. With over 90 per cent of applications already approved, the system is described as “highly permissive.” Reform, the LGA insists, should focus on smarter processes, not weaker safeguards.

Key priorities identified by the LGA include:

• Updating licensing fees, unchanged since 2005, to allow councils to recover costs and operate sustainably.
• Digital-first systems to streamline applications and improve transparency.
• Alignment with local strategies, such as cultural quarters and night-time economy plans, to ensure licensing supports broader ambitions for safe, vibrant communities.

Cllr Dr Wendy Taylor MBE, Chair of the LGA Health and Wellbeing Committee, and Cllr Arooj Shah, Chair of the LGA Neighbourhood Committee, emphasised that reform must balance economic growth with community safety, public health and democratic accountability. “Modernisation should mean smarter processes, not weaker safeguards,” they said.

The Government’s call for evidence closed earlier this month, but the LGA insists the debate is far from over. Councils, public health teams and community organisations are being urged to continue pressing for a licensing system that reflects local needs and protects residents.