The Stage

Local authorities call for clarity over live music licensing

Published Thursday 12 July 2007 at 11:25 by Lalayn Baluch

Local government has become the latest critic of the Licensing Act’s effect on live music, warning that “grey areas” must be removed to clarify the legislation.

The Local Authorities Co-ordinators of Regulatory Services has said unclear legislation is making it difficult for council officers to judge whether venues should be licensed for live music events.

The comments came in response to the final report by the Live Music Forum, which was established three years ago by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport to assess the impact of the Licensing Act.

The LMF’s advice urged ministers to investigate local authorities that had been “heavy-handed” and “over-zealous” when interpreting the legislation.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, chairman of LACORS, defended the position of local councils in light of these criticisms.

He said: “It is clear from the forum’s report that the vast majority of local authorities have succeeded in doing so [enforcing the act correctly], and we are pleased forum members have highlighted the excellent work that goes on in councils across the country.

“Where problems have arisen, the report quite clearly says they are a direct result of council officers having to make difficult judgements based on less than clear legislation and guidance. If the new licensing regime is to realise its full potential, the government must make sure these grey areas are removed.”