Fixing fixed licensing fees

Table of contents

• Original news
• What is the rationale behind fixed licensing fees?
• What are local authorities’ obligations as regards the licensing process? How much does this cost local authorities above the fee they are allowed to charge?
• Are there specific types of local authorities that are more affected by this than others? Is there anything they can do to streamline the process and make it more cost-effective?
• Is the law in need of reform?
• Do you have any predictions for future developments in the law in this area?

Article summary

Local Government analysis: The Local Government Association (LGA) has called on the government to review fixed licensing fees, claiming that local authorities’ costs aren’t being met and that money is being diverted from vital services. Richard Arnot, partner in the licensing team at Ward Hadaway, considers the current climate for local authorities and licensees and questions whether locally-set fees are the way forward.