34  Inspection of Premises

34.1  The Licensing Authority intends to establish protocols with the local police on enforcement issues to enable a more efficient deployment of Licensing Authority staff and police officers who are engaged in enforcing licensing law and the inspection of licensed premises.

34.2  It is intended that these protocols should also provide for the targeting of agreed problem and high risk premises which require greater attention, while providing a lighter touch in respect of low risk premises which are well run. 

34.3  Inspections should not be undertaken routinely but only when they are judged necessary.  This should ensure that resources are more effectively concentrated on problem premises. The Licensing Act 2003 enables the Licensing Authority through its officers to exercise discretion in relation to inspections and does not require annual inspections to take place.  The Licensing Authority, therefore, does not intend to carry out annual inspections unless the assessed risks make such inspections necessary.

34.4  From time to time premises may be inspected by Council Officers, the Police and/or the Fire Service for purposes of ascertaining compliance with the Act or associated Legislation or Regulations.

34.5  During the application period the Responsible Authorities might decide to carry out their own inspections. 

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