North Tyneside adopts cumulative impact policy

The Cumulative Impact Policy allows the authority to take into account the wider impact on the local community when considering individual licensing applications.

It means it could consider whether nuisance or public disorder is likely to arise due to a concentration of licensed premises in a designated area of Tynemouth village – meaning it will be more difficult for publicans to obtain a licence in that area.

Presumption to refuse​

The council confirmed that its licensing sub-committee will still consider future applications for licensed premises in line with the statutory process if a relevant representation has been made. However, committee members will be able to begin their consideration from a “presumption to refuse”, when considering any application for a premises licence or club premises certificate that permits alcohol sales or supply for consumption on the premises in the designated area.

The policy was adopted following feedback from residents during a consultation on the authority’s Statement of Licensing Policy earlier this year. Out of 117 responses to the specific proposal of the policy, 81% were in favour. Residents complained about noise, drunken behaviour, and feeling uncomfortable walking down Front Street due to public nuisance created by those drinking in licensed premises.