Croydon pubs and clubs targeted as part of alcohol crackdown

The new policy would work on the presumption that applications for a new premises licence or club premises certificate, or to vary an existing licence, will be refused.

These changes will not prevent licensing applications being made and each case will still be considered on its own merits.

Even where cumulative impact zones are in place, applications will have to draw objections before the council can refuse to grant or vary a premises licence.

The council is targeting areas based on crime figures, health-related statistics such as hospital admissions linked to binge drinking and violence, environmental health issues and complaints from residents and businesses.

Councillor Simon Hoar, cabinet member for community safety and public protection, said: “We will be listening to residents, businesses and licensees during this consultation period and the proposals may well change depending on their views.

“We are looking to introduce cumulative impact zones to help tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in our town centres and make these areas more pleasant for people to visit and work in.”