ADZ charge to be based on rateable value and hours

Pubs in Alcohol Disorder Zones (ADZs) could be charged based on their premises rateable value and opening hours, it has been confirmed.

Draft regulations covering the controversial scheme have today been published on a government website. The regulations were formally laid before Parliament on November 21.

The 22-page regulations state that premises in an ADZ will be scored based on two criteria. These would be: premises rateable value and hours of opening "during the service period".

However pubs that are part of Best Bar None or other "similar recognised accreditation scheme" could be granted a discount of up to 100 per cent.

Local authorities will be able to designate ADZs, as the part of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, where there is nuisance, disorder or annoyance associated with the consumption of alcohol in the area.

Once the regulations are approved by Parliament, pubs in ADZs would face a monthly charge and the threat of having their licence suspended if failing to pay within five working days of receiving a final demand notice.

Exemptions will be given to businesses where the "principal use of the premises" is not the sale or supply of alcohol and outlets where alcohol is not the main reason people enter.

A Home Office spokesman said: "ADZs were a manifesto commitment and were included in the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006."

He added that ADZs would be debated by both Houses "sometime in January".

Earlier this month the government said councils would be able to designate ADZs from January.

Many in the pub trade remain fiercely opposed to ADZs, and argue Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) are a fairer alternative.