Fylde Council changes licensing rules after residents raise noise and anti-social behaviour concerns
“This is a great example of the Council listening carefully to what residents and businesses told us.”
Fylde Council has formally adopted an updated Statement of Licensing Policy following concerns raised by residents about the cumulative impact of licensed premises in a specific area of Lytham.
The policy was adopted at a meeting of Full Council on Tuesday 22 September and is intended to provide a more considered approach to future licensing applications while protecting Lytham’s character and supporting local businesses.
The council said that, while the report does not relate to any specific premises in Lytham, it focuses on the area comprising of the Henry Street / Queen Street junction and ending at the Clifton Street / Station Road junction. It also said that complaints from residents raised relate to noise and anti-social behaviour.
Rather than introducing a blanket Cumulative Impact Policy, the Council says their Licensing Committee considered the evidence and resolved that the existing policy should instead be strengthened.
Under the updated approach, future applicants in the area will be encouraged to include additional safeguarding measures in their operating schedules. The policy also promotes closer working between the planning and licensing teams.
Officers subsequently prepared a revised draft policy, which was subject to a full consultation between April and May. Views were invited from residents, businesses, town and parish councils and other responsible authorities.
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Councillor Chris Dixon, Lead Member for Social Wellbeing, said: “This is a great example of the Council listening carefully to what residents and businesses told us, and finding the right balance. Lytham is such a special place, and this updated policy means we can protect that character while still supporting the businesses that make the town so vibrant.
“I’d like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation and helped shape this outcome.”
The updated policy is now in place and will guide how future licensing applications are assessed across the borough, with Fylde Council explaining that the changes will give communities greater confidence in their concerns being heard while supporting a thriving local economy.
The council described the move as another example of listening to residents and taking practical, proportionate action to keep neighbourhoods safe and welcoming places to live, work and visit.