Issue - meetings

A concern was raised at the Licensing Committee meeting on 27 June 2023 about a perceived lack of action around theft of alcohol from licensed premises.

Any issues relating to licenced premises where it has been identified they may be undermining the licensing objectives are dealt with in partnership with Dorset Police and other relevant responsible authorities. Work includes regular multi-agency meetings with all relevant officers.

In cases where informal action does not resolve an issue, anyone, but particularly the Police, will seek to review the premises licence.

The Licensing Manager presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'B' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

The Licensing Manger advised that a concern was raised at the Licensing Committee meeting on 27June 2023 about a perceived lack of action around theft of alcohol from licensed premises. Any issues relating to licenced premises where it has been identified they may be undermining the licensing objectives were dealt with in partnership with Dorset Police and other relevant responsible authorities. Work included regular multi agency meetings with relevant officers. In cases where informal action did not resolve an issue, anyone, but particularly the Police, would seek to review the premises licence.

The Committee was advised that the cost-of-living crisis had seen an increase in shoplifting in general, it was not limited to the theft of alcohol from licensed premises. Licensing officers worked with premises to add on conditions to help alleviate shoplifting e.g., a requirement to keep all alcohol behind locked doors.

The Committee thanked the Licensing Manger for providing an informative update. The Committee was pleased that multi agency work was taking place and  that licensing was a tool that could be used to help address some of the issues surrounding shoplifting.

Resolved that the Report be noted.