This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over SEND Reforms and Youth Justice, Approves High Wycombe Data Centre Amidst Environmental Concerns

Buckinghamshire Council's recent meetings have highlighted significant discussions around the effectiveness of SEND reforms, the challenges within the youth justice system, and the approval of a controversial data centre development. Residents and councillors are grappling with the real-world impact of these decisions, particularly on vulnerable groups.

SEND Reforms Under Fire: Families and Schools Await Clarity Amidst Delays

The Children’s & Education Select Committee convened on Thursday 10 September 2026, with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reforms taking centre stage. Councillor Carl Jackson, Cabinet Member for Education & Children's Services, presented an update on the SEND Improvement Programme and the SEND Recovery Programme. While progress has been made in issuing Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and reducing waiting times, the average wait remains at around 54 weeks, a figure that has dropped but is still a significant concern for families.

The committee heard that the council's SEND Reform Plan submission to the Department for Education (DfE) received positive initial feedback, crucial for accessing the High Needs Stability Grant, which covers a substantial portion of the council's SEND deficit. However, the ongoing deficit in the Dedicated Schools Grant and uncertainty surrounding future government funding remain pressing issues.

Councillor Julia Wassell raised concerns about the complexity of SEND plans, with some noted as being overly complex with too many actions. The over-reliance on parents and caregivers to manage risk for children experiencing domestic abuse was also highlighted. Councillor Wassell stressed the need for clearer communication and realistic actions within plans, ensuring they are easily understood by parents.

• Impact on Vulnerable Groups: The prolonged waiting times for EHCPs and the complexity of the plans directly impact children with SEND and their families. Delays in support can hinder educational progress and exacerbate existing challenges. The concerns about overly complex plans place an additional burden on parents, who are already navigating a challenging system. The council's commitment to clear communication and simplifying processes is vital for ensuring families receive the timely and appropriate support they need.

The committee also discussed the findings of a recent Ofsted and Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection, which judged the Buckinghamshire Local Area Partnership's SEND arrangements as leading to inconsistent experiences and outcomes. A strategic plan is in development to address workstreams such as Early Support and Inclusion, Preparation for Adulthood, High Support Needs, and Education Sufficiency.

You can find more details in the Children’s & Education Select Committee meeting agenda.

Youth Justice Plan Praised, But Mental Health and Accommodation Gaps Remain

The Children’s & Education Select Committee also reviewed the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan for 2026-2029. Councillor Carl Jackson highlighted the plan's focus on reducing first-time entrants to the youth justice system, re-offending rates, and the use of custody. The committee heard that key achievements include a reduction in first-time entrants and re-offending rates, with performance stronger than regional and national averages.

However, concerns were raised about the link between mental health and offending, particularly for young people on CAMHS waiting lists or with EHCPs. Councillor Hazel Arthur-Hewitt questioned the cross-service collaboration with the NHS and SEND departments to address these issues. Officers confirmed that speech and language therapists, a CAMHS link worker, and nurses are embedded within the Youth Justice Service to screen children and facilitate support.

A significant concern raised by Councillor Niknam Hussain related to accommodation and mental health support for young people leaving custody. He highlighted the near impossibility of securing CAMHS appointments and the long waiting lists for accommodation, noting that some families resort to taking their children abroad for treatment. The council acknowledged the challenges in housing stock and accommodation availability but stated that work is underway to develop strategies for care leavers and young people exiting secure units. The mental health issue was recognised as a significant challenge with no easy answers, but the council committed to raising the urgency with NHS colleagues and exploring wraparound support.

• Impact on Vulnerable Youth: The disproportionality of outcomes for certain ethnic groups and girls within the youth justice system is being addressed, but the long waiting times for mental health support and the lack of adequate accommodation for young people leaving custody pose serious risks. These gaps can hinder rehabilitation efforts and increase the likelihood of re-offending, impacting not only the young individuals but also the wider community.

High Wycombe Data Centre Approved Amidst Environmental and Infrastructure Worries

The West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday 26 August 2026 and approved an outline planning application for a data centre at Wycombe Air Park. The decision, however, was met with reservations from some councillors and environmental groups regarding the potential impact on the local environment and infrastructure.

While the development is expected to bring economic benefits, including job creation and investment, concerns were raised about noise, air quality, water supply, and the scale of the buildings. The applicant, BAM Properties, presented mitigation plans, including ecological enhancements to the nearby River Wye. The committee imposed conditions to manage noise, light pollution, and operational hours.

• Impact on Environment and Infrastructure: The approval of the data centre raises questions about the long-term environmental sustainability of such developments. While mitigation measures are in place, the scale of the project and its reliance on significant energy and water resources warrant ongoing scrutiny. The impact on local infrastructure, particularly water supply and waste management, needs careful monitoring to ensure the development does not place undue strain on existing services.

Other Matters

• The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 4 August 2026 and considered a new premises licence application for Kingswood Local in Marlow Bottom. Despite an objection from a local resident concerning child protection due to the proximity to a school bus pick-up point, the licence was granted with a condition preventing under-18s from entering after 5 pm. This decision aims to balance business needs with safeguarding concerns. Read the agenda here.
• The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee also met on Thursday 13 August 2026 and approved a Temporary Event Notice for The Bricklayers Arms public house, despite an objection from Environmental Health regarding noise. The decision was made after considering the premises' history and the applicant's proposed mitigation measures. Read the agenda here.
• The Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 and approved a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents across the county. They also received an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. Read the agenda here.
• The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy. Read the agenda here.
• The West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday 26 August 2026 and approved a retrospective garage conversion at Jersey Farmhouse, Marston Road, Granborough. Three other applications were withdrawn due to the new NPPF. Read the agenda here.
• The West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee also met on Wednesday 26 August 2026 and approved a pre-delivery and inspection centre for motor vehicles at Glory Park, Wooburn Green. Read the agenda here.
• The West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee also met on Wednesday 26 August 2026 and approved the conversion of a Grade II listed building at 8-9 Easton Street, High Wycombe, into a short-stay hostel for the homeless. Read the agenda here.

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Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves Controversial Housing Development in Bierton Amidst Strong Local Opposition and Infrastructure Concerns

The Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday 9 September 2026 and controversially approved an outline planning application for up to 36 dwellings on land off Barnett Way in Bierton. The decision was made despite significant objections from local councillors, Bierton Parish Council, and the Bierton Action Group, who highlighted substantial conflicts with local planning policies, environmental harm, and inadequate infrastructure.

Bierton Housing Development Approved Despite Local Objections

The committee's decision to approve the application for land off Barnett Way, Bierton, was heavily influenced by Buckinghamshire Council's inability to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply. This national planning policy, the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), creates a presumption in favour of sustainable development when such a supply is lacking.

Objectors, including Councillor Julie Ward and Councillor Kathy Gibbon, argued that the development would cause significant harm to the rural character of Bierton, impact a nearby Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and conservation area, and place an unacceptable strain on already oversubscribed local infrastructure, including schools and GP surgeries. The inadequacy of public transport and the safety of the access road, Barnett Way, were also major concerns.

Despite these objections, officers recommended approval, citing the need to deliver housing and affordable homes. The committee ultimately voted to defer and delegate the decision to the Service Director of Planning and Environment, subject to a Section 106 agreement and conditions. This means the final approval rests on satisfactory legal agreements and the implementation of specific conditions, but the principle of development has been accepted.

• Impact on Residents: For the residents of Bierton, this decision represents a significant development that will increase housing density in an area already facing infrastructure challenges. The approval, despite local opposition, highlights the tension between national housing targets and local concerns about infrastructure capacity and environmental protection. The conditions and Section 106 agreement will be crucial in mitigating the development's impact, but the fundamental concerns about the site's suitability and the strain on local services remain.

Other Matters

• The West Bucks Community Board met on Thursday 10 September 2026. The board discussed updates on community priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• The Children’s & Education Select Committee met on Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee discussed the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• The High Wycombe Town Committee met on Tuesday 8 September 2026. The committee discussed the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• The Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee met on Tuesday 8 September 2026. The committee discussed anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• The Aylesbury Community Board met on Tuesday 8 September 2026. The board received updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• The Senior Appointments and Pay Committee met on Tuesday 8 September 2026. The committee appointed Mr Glenn Watson as Interim Monitoring Officer. Read the agenda here.
• The BMKFA Executive Committee met on Wednesday 9 September 2026. The committee reviewed budget monitoring and performance reports, including the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• The East Chilterns Community Board met on Thursday 10 September 2026. The board received updates on community priorities and reviewed actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• The Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel met on Friday 11 September 2026. The panel reviewed reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 15 September 2026 to discuss key council strategies and investments, including the Country Parks Designation and Estate Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• The Council will meet on Wednesday 16 September 2026 to discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• The Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority will meet on Wednesday 16 September 2026 to review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee will meet on Thursday 17 September 2026 to consider a variation to the premises licence for Premier Hedgerley. Read the agenda here.
• The Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee will meet on Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• The West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee will meet on Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• The Licensing (Premises) Committee will meet on Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• The Licensing (Public Protection) Committee will meet on Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves Controversial Housing Development in Bierton Amidst Strong Local Opposition and Infrastructure Concerns

The Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday 9 September 2026 and controversially approved an outline planning application for up to 36 dwellings on land off Barnett Way in Bierton. The decision was made despite significant objections from local councillors, Bierton Parish Council, and the Bierton Action Group, who highlighted substantial conflicts with local planning policies, environmental harm, and inadequate infrastructure.

Bierton Housing Development Approved Despite Local Objections

The committee's decision to approve the application for land off Barnett Way, Bierton, was heavily influenced by Buckinghamshire Council's inability to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply. This national planning policy, the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), creates a presumption in favour of sustainable development when such a supply is lacking.

Objectors, including Councillor Julie Ward and Councillor Kathy Gibbon, argued that the development would cause significant harm to the rural character of Bierton, impact a nearby Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and conservation area, and place an unacceptable strain on already oversubscribed local infrastructure, including schools and GP surgeries. The inadequacy of public transport and the safety of the access road, Barnett Way, were also major concerns.

Despite these objections, officers recommended approval, citing the need to deliver housing and affordable homes. The committee ultimately voted to defer and delegate the decision to the Service Director of Planning and Environment, subject to a Section 106 agreement and conditions. This means the final approval rests on satisfactory legal agreements and the implementation of specific conditions, but the principle of development has been accepted.

• Impact on Residents: For the residents of Bierton, this decision represents a significant development that will increase housing density in an area already facing infrastructure challenges. The approval, despite local opposition, highlights the tension between national housing targets and local concerns about infrastructure capacity and environmental protection. The conditions and Section 106 agreement will be crucial in mitigating the development's impact, but the fundamental concerns about the site's suitability and the strain on local services remain.

You can find more details in the Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee meeting agenda.

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

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Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

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Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2022. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

---

Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

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Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. Read the agenda here.
• High Wycombe Town Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, the town's nighttime economy, and financial reports. Read the agenda here.
• Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss anti-social behaviour, Heathrow expansion, and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Read the agenda here.
• Aylesbury Community Board: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and partnership highlights. Read the agenda here.
• Senior Appointments and Pay Committee: Tuesday 08 September 2026. The committee will discuss senior resourcing matters. Read the agenda here.
• BMKFA Executive Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will review budget monitoring and performance reports. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 09 September 2026. The committee will consider a housing development application in Bierton. Read the agenda here.
• East Chilterns Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and review actions from the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
• Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel: Friday 11 September 2026. The panel will review reports on police effectiveness, victim support, and operational updates. Read the agenda here.
• Cabinet: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• East Bucks Community Board: Tuesday 15 September 2026. The board will receive updates on community priorities and project progress. Read the agenda here.
• Council: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The council will discuss the adoption of the Local Transport Plan 5, the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan, and the Pay Policy Statement. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority: Wednesday 16 September 2026. The authority will review performance reports and discuss the High Wycombe Fire Station redevelopment. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 17 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 23 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Public Protection) Committee: Tuesday 22 September 2026. Read the agenda here.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves New Street Trading Fees and Reviews Taxi Licensing Enforcement

Buckinghamshire Council's Licensing (Public Protection) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026, approving a new harmonised fee structure for street trading consents and receiving an update on taxi and private hire licensing enforcement. The decisions aim to create a consistent county-wide approach to street trading and ensure the safety and suitability of licensed drivers and vehicles.

New Street Trading Fees to Harmonise County-Wide Approach

The committee approved a new fee structure for street trading consents, set to take effect from 1 October 2026. This change supports the council's move to a single, county-wide street trading regime, meaning all streets in Buckinghamshire will become consent streets. This will bring previously unregulated areas, including mobile traders like ice cream vans, under regulation.

The fees are based on cost recovery, designed to cover the reasonable expenses of administering, monitoring, and enforcing the regime, rather than generating profit. The proposed fees for a new application are £1,668, and for a renewal, £1,458. These are benchmarked against neighbouring authorities and are noted to be below the average charged elsewhere, while still supporting the cost recovery principle. Efficiencies gained from the unified approach have allowed for these fees to be set lower than what many existing traders currently pay. The council will monitor income and expenditure closely and review the fee structure within 12 months of implementation.

• Impact on Residents: This harmonised approach aims to create a fairer system for traders and ensure that street trading activities are properly managed. For residents, it means a more consistent regulatory framework across the county, potentially leading to better-managed street trading environments.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting agenda.

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Enforcement Update

The committee received a regular update on enforcement activities for Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. The number of licensed drivers remained stable, with a slight decrease of under 2%, while licensed vehicles reduced by around 4%. Conversely, licensed private hire operators increased by approximately 5%. The number of licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) saw an increase of around 8%.

The report detailed 184 complaints received during the period, with driver behaviour and conduct being the most common issue. Investigations led to various sanctions, including penalty points, warning letters, and driver suspensions. Twenty-two driver licences were revoked, a slight increase from the previous year, for reasons including serious motoring offences, dishonesty, and safeguarding concerns. Twenty vehicle licences were also revoked, primarily due to vehicles not being repaired or deemed safe after an accident.

The update also touched upon national developments, including government proposals for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing, aimed at improving passenger safety and addressing inconsistencies between authorities.

• Impact on Residents: This update assures residents that robust enforcement is in place to maintain safety standards for taxis and private hire vehicles. The increase in WAVs is positive for accessibility, and the focus on driver conduct and vehicle safety directly contributes to a safer public transport experience. National reforms could lead to even higher standards across the country.

Licensing Policy Review Underway

The Licensing (Premises) Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy guides the council's approach to authorising licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, ensuring they uphold the four statutory licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.

The current policy was adopted in March 2022, and a review and consultation process is underway for a revised policy to be published by March 2027. The committee was informed about the proposed consultation approach, which includes an eight-week period utilising the council's online platform and direct engagement with licence holders. The aim is to gather feedback to inform a revised draft policy, which will then be referred to Full Council for adoption.

• Impact on Residents: The Statement of Licensing Policy directly influences the types of entertainment and alcohol sales permitted in licensed premises across Buckinghamshire. A thorough review and consultation process ensures that the policy reflects community needs and concerns, balancing the interests of businesses with the need to maintain public safety and prevent nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting agenda.

Temporary Event Notice Approved for The Bricklayers Arms

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Bricklayers Arms public house. Despite an objection from Environmental Health concerning potential public nuisance due to noise, the Sub-Committee decided to allow the event to proceed as submitted.

Environmental Health had raised concerns based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a previous noise abatement notice. They cited evidence from a recent event on 1 August 2026 where amplified music was audible and intrusive in neighbouring properties. However, the Sub-Committee noted that historical issues were primarily related to previous management. They also considered the constructive engagement between the new premises user and local residents and Environmental Health, and the lack of formal complaints regarding recent events.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee found insufficient evidence to justify refusing the event or imposing additional conditions, concluding that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would not be undermined.

• Impact on Residents: This decision means a private 50th birthday BBQ event with amplified music will proceed as planned. While residents' concerns about noise were heard, the Sub-Committee determined that the evidence did not warrant refusal. This highlights the delicate balance licensing committees must strike between supporting events and protecting residents from nuisance.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

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Upcoming Meetings

• West Bucks Community Board: Thursday 10 September 2026. The board will discuss updates on its priorities, focusing on youth and the rural economy. Read the agenda here.
• Children’s & Education Select Committee: Thursday 10 September 2026. The committee will discuss the Youth Justice Plan, SEND reforms, and the Ofsted/ILACS focus visit. [Read the agenda