Licensing

_________________________________________________________________________ - Page 1 - Minutes Licensing Committee Wednesday, 8 October 2025 Meeting held at Committee Room 5 - Civic Centre Members Present: Councillors Darran Davies (Chair) Colleen Sullivan Reeta Chamdal Shehryar Ahmad-Wallana Kelly Martin Scott Farley Janet Gardner Kuldeep Lakhmana Barry Nelson-West Apologies: Peter Smallwood Officers Present: Daniel Ferrer, Licensing Services Anisha Teji, Democratic Services Chantelle McLeod, Legal Services Also Present Ross Forsyth, Principal Licensing Officer Kate Morris, Animal Welfare Officer 31. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Peter Smallwood. 32. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST IN MATTERS COMING BEFORE THIS MEETING There were no declarations of interest. 33. TO AGREE THE MINUTES FROM THE MEETING ON 9 OCTOBER 2024 RESOLVED: That the Committee agreed the minutes of the Licensing Committee meeting on 9 October 2024. 34. TO AGREE THE MINUTES FROM THE MEETING ON 8 MAY 2025 RESOLVED: That the Committee agreed the minutes of th e Licensing Committee meeting on 8 May 2025. _________________________________________________________________________ - Page 2 - 35. TO CONFIRM THAT THE ITEMS OF BUSINESS MARKED PART 1 WILL BE CONSIDERED IN PUBLIC AND THAT THE ITEMS OF BUSINESS MARKED PART 2 IN PRIVATE RESOLVED: That the Committee considered agenda item 6 - presentation from Animal Welfare in Part II as it contained information to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime. 36. PRESENTATION FROM ANIMAL LICENSING & ANIMAL WELFARE The Committee received a presentation on Animal Licensing and Welfare. The presentation outlined the statutory and discretionary powers held by officers under various animal welfare and licensing legislation, including the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and related regulations. The Committee was informed about the licensing framework for commercial activities involving animals, the application and inspection process, and the star rating system for licensed operators. Enforcement procedures, including penalties for non -compliance and investigato ry channels for unlicensed operators, were described. Case studies illustrated enforcement in practice, such as the investigation into unlicensed dog breeding and the rescue of an abandoned pony. The presentation also highlighted the challenges faced by the team, including limited resources, complex legislation, and increasing public expectation. Members asked a number of questions around regulation and enforcement and thanked officers for their attendance. This item was considered in Part II as it conta ined information relating to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime. That the public interest in withholding the information outweighed the public interest in discl osing it (exempt information under paragraph 7 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government [Access to Information] Act 1985 as amended). 37. STATEMENT OF LICENSING POLICY (POLICY FRAMEWORK) The Licensing Team Manager introduced the report on Statement of Licensing Policy Consultation. The Committee was invited to comment on the proposed revisions, which were primarily administrative and aimed at improving clarity, efficiency, and customer service. No substantive changes to Council policy w ere proposed, with amendments mainly reflecting updated dates, team names, typographical corrections, and new sections on topics such as Environmental Best Practice, Counter Terrorism, Spiking, ‘Ask For Angela’, and Pavement Licensing. The Committee noted that the policy review was required by legislatio n and that the draft would be subject to formal consultation before final adoption by Full Council. The Committee acknowledged the timetable for policy implementation and the benefits for residents in maintaining an effective licensing framework _________________________________________________________________________ - Page 3 - In response to Member questions, officers confirmed that the 'Ask for Angela' initiative had been formally incorporated into the draft Statement of Licensing Policy as a key safeguarding measure. New applicants wer e being encouraged to adopt it, and existing lice nsed premises would be monitored for compliance. On improving operational efficiency, it was noted that collaborative working across internal teams and with responsible authorities was essential. While the p olicy may not directly address inter -agency relationships, regular meetings were held to discuss problematic premises and coordinate enforcement. The Committee was advised that the consultation had been underway for approximately two and a half weeks, with seven responses received, mainly from responsibl e authorities, and no substantive concerns raised. Feedback to date was largely technical and it was noted that contact had also been made with current licence holders for comment on the consultation. The Committee enquired about the number of premises currently participating in the 'Ask for Angela' initiative and noted that men could also be victims of the associated safeguarding concerns. It was confirmed that relevant statistics were held by Police Licensing, and the Committee expressed support for inc luding the male -focused aspect within the initiative. The Committee noted that Temporary Event Notices (TENs) were not referenced in the report and queried whether the process had been reviewed. Although T ENs were managed by the police, they were processed by the licensing team and governed by legislation. Each case was however assessed on their own merits. The Committee noted that there were six gambling establishments in the Hayes Town area. Members con sidered that this number may be excessive and que ried what options would be available should the government decide to amend relevant legislation, including the potential introduction of quotas. RESOLVED: That the Committee considered the revisions to the Statement of Licensing Policy and provided comments to be considered by Cabinet at the end of the consultation period. 38. LEGISLATIVE AND INDUSTRY UPDATE The Committee received an update on recent legislative, case law and industry news update under the functions within its remit. The Com mittee noted updates to statutory guidance under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003, including provisions for off -sales, spiking prevention, and reinforcement of licensing objectives. The report summarise d the work of the Licensing Taskforce, which had made priority recommendations for national consistency, licence modernisation, and reforms to pavement licensing and temporary event notices. The Committee was informed of the Greater London Authority’s prop osal to devolve licensing powers and the developm ent of a pilot scheme for strategic licensing reform. Updates on the Gambling Act 2005 included the introduction of the Gambling Levy Regulations, new stake limits for online slot games, and the formation of a local authority coalition advocating for greater control over gambling premises. Hillingdon Council’s recent motion to join this coalition was _________________________________________________________________________ - Page 4 - highlighted, reflecting its commitment to responsible regulation. No further legislative changes were reported in relation to sex establishment licences, scrap metal dealers, or street trading. In terms of enforcement, licensing officers carried out proactive inspections and operated with a clear remit regarding the checks to be undertaken, including limits and l abelling of gambling machines. These inspections were conducted in partnership with the Gambling Commission, whose officers provided specialist expertise. The teams jointly investigated complaints and allegations as part of their regulatory responsibilities. The Committee requested a review of the histo ry of gambling machines located airside at Heathrow Airport, with an update to be provided to Members. It was agreed that details regarding the number of legal cases initiated and completed within the past 2 4 months would be reported, along with information on any cases that may not have been captured. Over the last five years, the Licensing Sub - Committee had considered 55 applications. The Committee acknowledged the mediation efforts undertaken to resolve matters prior to referral to the Licensing Sub -Committee and commended officers for their work. RESOLVED: That the Committee noted the report. 39. COMMITTEE FORWARD PLANNER The Committee noted the Forward Planner as set out on the agenda. RESOLVED: That the Committee noted the Forward Planner 40. RATIFICATION OF SUB COMMITTEE MINUTES Members were updated on recent Licensing Sub- Committee decisions since the last meeting and ratified the minutes of the recent sub – committees hearing. RESOLVED: That the Committee, with the a greement of any Members present at the following Sub-Committees that they are a correct record, ratified the minutes of the following meetings: 1. 21 October 2024 - Application For The Grant Of A Premises Lic ence: Daman Food & Wine, 6 Dawley Parade, Dawley Road, Hayes UB3 1EA 2. 22 November 2024 - Application For The Grant Of A New Temporary Street Trading Licence: Europa Furniture, 77 Victoria Road, Ruislip HA4 9BH 3. 9 January 2025 - Application To Review The Pre mises Licence For Khaneja Food & Booze, 1 -2 The A rcade, 276-277 High Street, Uxbridge UB8 1LQ _________________________________________________________________________ - Page 5 - 4. 24 January 2025 - Application For The Grant Of A Premises Licence: Mandala Restaurant And Lounge, Carter House, Colham Mill Road, West Drayton, UB77AE 5. 26 February 2025 - Application For The Grant Of A Premises Licence: H & H, News & Wine, 6-10, High Street, Harefield UB9 6BU 6. 14 March 2025 - Application For The Grant Of A Premises Licence: Mcdonalds, 22/24 Station Road, Hayes, UB3 4DA 7. 16 April 2025 - Application For The Grant Of A Premises Licence: S&K News, 64 Byron Way, West Drayton, UB79JD 8. 21 May (meeting adjourned from 24 April 2025) - Resumed Hearing: Application For The Variation Of A Premises Licence: Prince Of Wales, 1 Harlington Road, Hillingdon, UB8 3HX 9. 14 August 2025 - Application For The Grant Of A New Premises Licence For Pepe's Piri Piri, 3 Byron Parade, Uxbridge Road, Uxbridges

Minutes LICENSING COMMITTEE 14 May 2026 Meeting held at Council Chamber - Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge UB8 1UW Committee Members Present: Councillors Darran Davies (Chair), Colleen Sullivan, Kuldeep Lakhmana, Peter Smallwood, Kelly Martin (Vice-Chair), Tommy Balaam, Ranjeet Rathore, Amanpreet Kaur and Raju Sansarpuri ELECTION OF CHAIR (Agenda Item 1) RESOLVED: That Councillor Darran Davies be elected as Chair of the Licensing Committee for the 2026/27 municipal year. ELECTION OF VICE CHAIR (Agenda Item 2) RESOLVED: That Councillor Kelly Martin be elected as Vice Chair of the Licensing Committee for the 2026/27 municipal year. The meeting, which commenced at 9:00pm, closed at 9:10pm. These are the minutes of the above meeting. For more information on any of the resolutions please contact Anisha Teji Democratic Services on ATeji@Hillingdon.gov.uk . Circulation of these minutes is to Councillors, Officers, the Press and Members of the Public.

Classification: Part I - Public Licensing Committee: 8 October 2026 LEGISLATIVE & INDUSTRY UPDATE – OCTOBER 2026 Committee Licensing Committee Officer Legal Services Wards All HEADLINES This report advises the Licensing Committee of recent legislative, policy, case law and industry developments relating to licensing functions within the Committee's remit. The report also highlights emerging national and regional policy developments that may influence future licensing decision-making and policy formulation. RECOMMENDATION: That the Committee notes the report. Licensing Act 2003 Revised Statutory Guidance under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 The Home Office published revised Statutory Guidance under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 on 12 February 2026. Licensing authorities must have regard to this guidance when exercising licensing functions. The revised guidance reflects a growing emphasis on supporting economic growth, hospitality, cultural activity and the night -time economy whilst continuing to promote the four statutory licensing objectives. Key Changes Economic Growth and Licensing Decisions The revised guidance places greater emphasis on the role of licensed premises in supporting local economies, town centres, cultural activity and employment opportunities. Licensing authorities are encouraged to consider economic benefits alongside the promotion of the licensing objectives when making licensing decisions. Consideration of Local Plans and Strategies The guidance now expressly encourages licensi ng authorities to have regard to relevant local strategies and plans, including town centre regeneration programmes, night -time economy initiatives and economic development strategies where these are consistent with the licensing objectives and the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy. Classification: Part I - Public Licensing Committee: 8 October 2026 Temporary Event Notices The guidance provides further clarification regarding Temporary Event Notice procedures, statutory limits and the circumstances in which responsible authorities may object to proposed events. Spiking Prevention The revised guidance continues to emphasise the importance of tackling drink and needle spiking through appropriate safeguarding measures, staff training and effective incident reporting procedures. Licensed operators are encouraged to a dopt proactive safeguarding arrangements to protect customers and staff. Greater London Authority Strategic Licensing Powers A significant development during 2026 has been the introduction of strategic licensing powers for the Greater London Authority and the Mayor of London, which came into effect on 29 June 2026. The reforms seek to provide a more coordinated strategic approach to licensing matters across London. Strategic Licensing Policy The Mayor has been granted powers to develop a London -wide Strateg ic Licensing Policy intended to support economic growth, culture, hospitality and the night -time economy whilst maintaining public safety and promoting the licensing objectives. Greater London Authority as a Responsible Authority The GLA is now a Responsible Authority under the Licensing Act 2003 and may receive applications and make representations where considered appropriate. Duty to Consult London licensing authorities are required to consult the Mayor when preparing or revisin g Statements of Licensing Policy. Implications for Hillingdon Whilst the Council remains the licensing authority for the Borough, Members should be aware that future licensing policy across London is likely to be increasingly influenced by wider strategic objectives relating to economic growth, regeneration, tourism, cultural activity and the night -time economy. Public Sector Equality Duty Members are reminded that licensing authorities must have due regard to the Public Sector Equality Duty under section 149 of the Equality Act 2010 when exercising licensing functions. The duty applies both to the formulation of licensing policy and the det ermination of individual applications. Licensing decisions should continue to take appropriate account of equality Classification: Part I - Public Licensing Committee: 8 October 2026 considerations and protected characteristics in accordance with the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy. Industry News & Updates National Licensing Policy Framework Work has continued throughout 2026 on implementing the recommendations of the Licensing Taskforce and the development of a National Licensing Policy Framework. The framework promotes a balanced approach which seeks to support responsible business growth, cultural activity, tourism and hospitality whilst maintaining effective safeguards through the licensing objectives. The framework also encourages greater consistency in licensing practice whilst preserving local decision-making powers. Digital Proof of Age Government work continues to support the introduction of certified digital proof -of-age technologies. The proposals aim to modernise age verification arrangements and support compliance with age- restricted sales le gislation. Digital verification systems may assist businesses in promoting the licensing objective of protecting children from harm whilst reducing opportunities for underage sales and improving customer convenience. Further developments are anticipated. Partnership Working in the Night-Time Economy The Institute of Licensing, together with national partners, launched a Partnership Charter for the Night-Time Economy in 2026. The initiative encourages collaboration between licensing authorities, responsible authorities, businesses and local communities to support safe, inclusive and economically vibrant town centres and night-time economies. The initiative reflects the increasing national emphasis on striking an appropriate balance between economic growth and the promotion of the licensing objectives. Martyn's Law The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, commonly referred to as "Martyn's Law", introduces duties on those responsible for certain publicly accessible venues and events to assess terrorism risks and implement proportionate mitigation measures. Whilst the legislation does not form part of the Licensing Act 2003 regime, many licensed premises may fall within its scope. Members should therefore be aware of the increasing overlap between venue management, public safety responsibilities and wider regulatory compliance requirements. Agent of Change Principle The Agent of Change Principle continues to be reflected in both planning and licensing guidance. Classification: Part I - Public Licensing Committee: 8 October 2026 The principle recognises that where new development is introduced close to existing licensed premises, responsibility for mitigating impacts should generally fall on the party introducing the new use rather than imposing unreasonable restrictions on established businesses. This principle is intended to support both existing licensed premises and sustainable development. Gambling Act 2005 Statutory Gambling Levy The statutory gambling levy introduced under the Gambling Levy Regulations 2025 has now completed its first full year of operation. The levy replaced previous voluntary funding arrangements and requires licensed gambling operators to contribute towards research, prevention and treatment services addressing gambling-related harms. Government reporting indicates that approximately £120 million was generated during its first year of operation. Whilst administered nationally, the levy reflects the continued national focus on gambling harm prevention and public health considerations. Such developments may influence future policy discussions and regulatory developments affecting local authority gambling functions. Schedule 3 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 in respect of Sex Establishment Licences No significant legislative changes, notable cases or industry d evelopments have been identified during the reporting period. Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 No further legislative changes/notable cases/industry updates. Street Trading – London Local Authorities Act 1990 No further legislative changes/notable cases/industry updates.

Classification: Public Licensing Committee: 8 October 2026 LICENSING COMMITTEE FORWARD PLANNER 2025/26 Committee name Licensing Committee Officer reporting Democratic Services Ward All HEADLINES This standard report provides an opportunity for the Committee to schedule topical presentations, comment on key policy issues and receive general information and updates relevant to the discharge of their regulatory duties via the licensing sub-committee. RECOMMENDATIONS: That the Committee note the Forward Planner and suggest any alterations to, or additional items, as set out. 6 April 2027 10am Committee Room 5 Proposed Agenda / Reports Lead Officer Presentation Presentation from Trading Standards Daniel Ferrer Reports TBC Daniel Ferrer Informatives Legislative and Industry Update Chantelle McCleod Business Review - Meeting Forward Planner - Recent Licensing sub-committee decisions and ratification of past sub- committee Minutes Dem Services Implications on related Council policies This planner supports the application of and review of relevant licensing and regulatory policies to the decision -making Cabinet / Council , as well as informative matters to support sound decision-making at the Licensing Sub-Committee. Classification: Public Licensing Committee: 8 October 2026 Financial Implications None. Legal Implications None. BACKGROUND PAPERS NIL