Large pubs to pay most in ADZs
Larger pubs and clubs and those open later are likely to pay the most in an alcohol disorder zone (ADZs).
Most supermarkets and off-licences will probably avoid paying the charges - and venues with Best Bar None (BBN) accreditation could also pay nothing.
The Home Office has released more details of the much-criticised ADZs in draft regulations laid before Parliament.
Premises in an ADZ will get a "score" based on the rateable value and hours of opening during the designated "service period" of the ADZ. The higher the score, the more the venue will pay.
Venues that are not licensed to trade during the ADZ's service period will receive a 100% discount.
Councils will decide when the service period begins but it is likely that many off-trade venues will be shut at this point.
Best Bar None discount
The document says councils may grant discounts "up to 100%" on charges "where the licence holder is a member of the Best Bar None or other similar recognised accreditation scheme".
Councils will be required to state the "total cost" of an ADZ that will be divided between the licensed premises.
This cost is calculated by adding the cost of "non-baseline services" provided by the council and police in a zone, along with the cost of collecting money and reviewing the ADZ.
ADZs have been almost universally derided - by police and councils as well as the trade - for being unworkable, unfair and detrimental to an area.
The Home Office said no dates have been set for the draft regulations to be debated in the Commons and the Lords. The aim is for councils to be able to push for ADZs from 8 January.
Outrageous
Bar Entertainment and Dance Association executive director Paul Smith said it was "outrageous" that off-trade venues could avoid charges.
"It just makes a bad situation worse where you can sell alcohol but close 10 minutes before the point of commencement and come off scot-free.
"You can drink their alcohol in the public realm but all the people who are running responsible bars and clubs, which could be the shining beacon of good practice, end up paying.
"It's just one of the countless number of flaws in the whole legislation."
