The Licensing Committee of Hillingdon Council met on Thursday 8 October 2026 to discuss legislative and industry updates, and to review the committee's forward plan. Key discussions included the implications of new licensing powers for the Mayor of London, changes to Temporary Event Notices, and the ongoing emphasis on economic growth within licensing decisions.

Legislative and Industry Update

The committee received an update on recent legislative and industry developments impacting licensing functions. A significant point of discussion was the revised Statutory Guidance under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003, which now places a greater emphasis on supporting economic growth, cultural activity, and the night-time economy, while continuing to uphold the four statutory licensing objectives. This includes encouraging licensing authorities to consider economic benefits alongside the licensing objectives when making decisions and to have regard to local strategies and plans.

Members discussed the new strategic licensing powers granted to the Greater London Authority (GLA) and the Mayor of London, which came into effect on 29 June 2026. These reforms aim to foster a more coordinated strategic approach to licensing across London, with the Mayor developing a London-wide Strategic Licensing Policy. The GLA is now a Responsible Authority under the Licensing Act 2003, meaning they receive applications and can make representations. It was suggested that a representative from the Mayor's Office be invited to a future meeting to explain these new arrangements and address members' questions. Councillor Peter Smallwood OBE noted that while the partnership approach was not necessarily a negative, he was concerned about the potential for London-wide priorities to conflict with local ones, particularly given the current challenges facing the night-time economy. Councillor Philip Corthorne MCIPD also raised concerns about potential conflicts between the London-wide plan and local priorities, but was assured by officers that early discussions with the GLA had been positive and focused on collaboration.

Updates were also provided on Temporary Event Notices (TENs), with changes coming into effect from January 2027 that will increase the maximum number of TENs from 15 to 20 and the maximum number of days from 21 to 28. However, the maximum number of guests (499) and the 168-hour limit remain unchanged. Concerns were raised by Councillor John Garner about Ward Councillors being made aware of TENs, with officers explaining that while statutory notification requirements had not changed, notices must be displayed prominently at premises. The committee was assured that where particular concerns existed, further engagement with relevant authorities could take place.

The committee also discussed the growing emphasis on economic growth within the revised guidance. It was clarified that economic considerations would not override the licensing objectives, which would remain central to decision-making. Councillor John Garner questioned whether the push for growth could become a counter-consideration alongside the four licensing principles, potentially creating a conflict. Daniel Ferrer, Licensing Team Manager, reassured the committee that the four main licensing objectives are paramount and that while economic growth is a consideration, it does not compromise the core objectives.

Other updates included information on safeguarding measures to tackle drink and needle spiking, the introduction of digital proof of age for age verification, and Martyn's Law (the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act), which introduces duties for venues to assess terrorism risks. The Agent of Change Principle, which places responsibility for mitigating impacts on new developments near existing licensed premises, was also highlighted.

In relation to gambling, the committee was informed about the statutory gambling levy, which has completed its first year of operation and generates funds for research, prevention, and treatment of gambling-related harms. The potential introduction of gambling impact assessments (GIAs) was also mentioned, which would give local authorities more say in areas with a cluster of gambling premises. Councillor Peter Smallwood OBE also raised concerns about a 24-hour gambling hall in Ruislip, deeming it inappropriate.

Committee Forward Plan

The committee discussed its future work programme. It was suggested that the meeting on 6 April 2027 be moved to an evening slot, starting at 7:00 pm, to better accommodate members who may have work commitments. Members also requested a future update from Trading Standards, including details on the number of visits, joint operations, and outcomes, as well as an update on outstanding actions relating to gambling at Heathrow airside premises.

The committee supported the idea of site visits to licensed premises to observe licensing compliance in practice. It was also suggested that a licensee be invited to a future meeting to share their experiences of working with the Licensing Service. Further member training opportunities were requested, including training on the Ask Angela scheme, which aims to provide a safe way for people to seek help in licensed premises. Councillor Peter Smallwood OBE specifically requested training on Ask Angela for the committee. Councillor John Garner, as a new member, also enquired about development materials to broaden his knowledge.

The committee discussed inviting a representative from the Mayor of London's office to a future meeting to discuss the GLA's new strategic licensing powers.