Licensing Act 2003

The Licensing Act 2003 is the most comprehensive reform of licensing law in over 200 years.   

The Act, which received Royal assent in July 2003, establishes a single integrated scheme for licensing premises, which are used for the sell or supply of alcohol, provide  entertainment or  sell late night refreshments.  Permission to carry on some or all of these licensable activities in Reading is now contained in a single licence issued by Reading Borough Council.

Following consultation with stakeholders and the public, the Council has produced a Licensing Policy Statement which aims to ensure a balance between securing the safety and amenity of our residential and business communities and responsibly maintaining and developing our role as a major entertainment and cultural centre.

The policy statement, application forms and guidance on the Act are available through this section of the website.

Article		Description
	Licensing Policy Statement	The licensing policy should be used as a guide to Reading Borough Council's approach to the licensing of premises in Reading. It may also be used as a guide when completing the operating schedule for a Premise Licence Application.
	Licensing Act 2003 Application forms Premises and Personal	Please follow this link to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport's website for all relevant application forms.
	Useful contacts for Licensing Act
	Weekly Reports	Information on Premises & Club Premises applications received by Reading Borough Council
	Public Notice	Public Notice for review
	Licensing Act 2003	Please follow this link for a full copy of the Act