22  Drugs Policy

22.1  The Licensing Authority recognises that drug use by young people in a club environment is not something that is relevant to all licensed premises. 

22.2  The Licensing Authority recognises the importance of guidance such as that contained in the Guidance entitled “Safer Clubbing”.  “Safer Clubbing” concerns drugs and nightclubs. The Home Office, in conjunction with the Department of Health and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, produced the Safer Clubbing Guide to provide comprehensive advice for nightclub owners, dance event promoters and existing local authority licensing departments on how to ensure the health and safety of anyone attending dance events in England. The Guide can be viewed in full on www.drugs.gov.uk.

22.3  Although “Safer Clubbing” has been directly aimed at late night club venues which have been associated with drug misuse, the safety of people attending events at all licensed premises, which can now operate the type of events at which people are more likely to take drugs, must be ensured.

22.4  The Licensing Authority recommends this document to applicants wishing to provide the type of event at which people are more likely to take drugs.  It is hoped that the document will be modified to refer to the provisions of the Licensing Act 2003.

22.5  Information regarding Safer Clubbing has been reproduced at Annex E of the Guidance issued under Section 182 of the Act.    

22.6  Where relevant applicants for Premises Licences or Club Premises Certificates should be able to demonstrate that they have had regard to “Safer Clubbing” in preparing operating schedules.

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