Revised s.182 guidance published

Revised guidance issued under section 182 of Licensing Act 2003 was published today (12 February 2026).

The statutory guidance was updated to include paragraph 1.19 relating to local authorities considering local plans/strategies in licensing decisions.

Under heading “Each application on its own merits”, paragraph 1.19 reads:

“1.19 In coming to a decision on individual licensing applications, licensing committees should have regard to relevant local plans and strategies – such as those relating to town planning, the night-time economy, or business support – provided these considerations are consistent with the licensing objectives and the authority’s published licensing policy. For example, licensing authorities in the area covered by the London Mayor should consider the London Plan 2021 which sets out a clear framework for the development of London over the next 20-25 years and the Mayor’s vision for Good Growth.”