Government licensing proposals are welcomed by the LIVE and Music Venue Trust.
News Article: Government Embraces Licensing Taskforce Report, Promises Modernization and Streamlining
The UK government has welcomed the recommendations put forth in the Licensing Taskforce report, a collaborative effort led by LIVE CEO Jon Collins and Music Venue Trust CEO Mark Davyd. The report, which was recently profiled in Music Week, focuses on modernizing and streamlining the licensing system, with a particular emphasis on festival licensing, the National Licensing Policy Framework, and strengthening the 'agent of change' principle.
- National Licensing Policy Framework
The government has expressed its support for creating a National Licensing Policy Framework. This initiative aims to ensure consistency, transparency, and a pro-growth approach across local licensing authorities. The framework will balance national direction with local discretion in licensing decisions, aligning licensing better with broader cultural, economic, and social priorities. [1][2][3]
- Festival and Temporary Event Licensing
While detailed festival-specific recommendations are less explicit, the government plans to review temporary event notice limits to provide more flexibility for operators. This move is highly relevant for festival licensing and will facilitate easier management of temporary events. Additionally, exploration of longer licensing terms for pavement areas and support for hospitality and night-time economy zones will benefit event operators by providing greater certainty and flexibility. [2][3]
- Strengthening the 'Agent of Change' Principle
The government intends to reinforce the 'agent of change' principle in licensing decisions. This principle, which protects established venues from noise complaints or restrictions caused by new development nearby, will be strengthened to preserve vibrant cultural and music scenes. [2][3]
In addition to these recommendations, the government has also announced an 'amnesty' to modernize and streamline existing licenses, helping to remove outdated conditions and reduce red tape. [1][2]
Steve Lamacq, who is also associated with LIVE, as mentioned in the recent Music Week profile, has expressed delight at working with the government on the Licensing Taskforce report. Music Venue Trust CEO Mark Davyd warmly welcomes the government's response to the report, supporting reviews of grandfather clauses and advocating for a practical approach to temporary event notices.
Jon Collins, LIVE's CEO, believes that the rebalancing of the licensing regime will lead to more joy, more vibrancy, and crucially, growth. He refers to these measures as business-friendly, stating that they will open up new opportunities for venues, events, and festivals while retaining necessary protections.
The government sees potential benefits in providing greater certainty and stability for recurring events, with the new policies aiming to revitalize the hospitality and entertainment sectors. This commitment to a more balanced, modern, and nationally coherent licensing policy reflects a dedication to supporting economic and cultural growth while protecting community interests. [4]
The government has also recognized the value in reviewing license length and fees for festivals, a move that is expected to further support the evolution of licensing in line with current needs. These recommendations mark a significant shake-up intended to revitalize the hospitality and entertainment sectors.
- The government's plans to review temporary event notice limits and explore longer licensing terms for pavement areas, as well as their intention to reinforce the 'agent of change' principle, will potentially bring about a more vibrant music scene and increased entertainment opportunities.
- The government's commitment to creating a National Licensing Policy Framework, which aims to provide consistency, transparency, and a pro-growth approach across local licensing authorities, could lead to a more streamlined and modern music licensing system that benefits both operators and patrons.
