Issue - meetings

Following a request at the previous meeting to give consideration to the Late Night Levy later in the year, and the resolution of Council that the matter be considered prior to approving the Statement of Licensing Policy, members are asked to give consideration to this report and give direction.

Following a request at the previous meeting, members received a report on the Late Night Levy power under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011. It was reported that, whilst the authority would receive 30% (and the Police 70%) of any levy, it would have to be spent on the night-time economy. It was further reported that the Police were not recommending introduction of a levy as the current situation was manageable. Members were reassured that the decision on this matter did not affect approval of the Statement of Licensing Policy by Council.

The possibility of introducing a levy for those premises remaining open after 3am only was discussed, and it was agreed that, should the need for such a levy become apparent, the times could be agreed by the Council.

It was proposed by Councillor Cartwright and seconded by Councillor Hall that the Late Night Levy be not pursued as they did not wish to damage the night time economy by imposing additional charges and the Police did not feel it necessary.

Councillor Cartwright proposed an amendment that the matter be revisited if necessary after six months, however upon receiving officer advice that there were provisions to do this under the Constitution anyway so a motion was not necessary, he withdrew his amendment. It was therefore unanimously

RESOLVED – the Late Night Levy be not pursued.