Small pubs and bars will be risking £20,000 fines, or even closure, if they do not do more to prepare for new licensing laws set to be introduced next year, a consultancy firm has warned.
Croner said that the majority of the UK’s 64,000 license holders are in for a “horrible shock” when a radical overhaul of licensing regulations takes place in September 2005.
The government has said that the updated Licensing Act will “sweep away much unnecessary red tape” by combining the six existing licensing regimes into one single body which will include regulated entertainment and abolish standard drinking hours.
If pubs and bars do not apply for the new license and follow the updated rules, they will risk a £20,000 fine or even closure by the authorities.
Croner said that after consultations with landlords, many are not prepared or even aware of the upcoming changes.
The consultancy firm has published a new guide for bars and pubs, to help them comply with the new laws.
Steve Reed, of Croner said that with only 15 months before the Act takes effect, licensees need to take action now.
“The majority of licensees don’t know what the changes to the Act are, let alone how to go about getting a new license.
“Although local authorities are becoming more involved, many think it has already been left too late.
“What licensees have told us is that they want more practical support to help them operate in line with the new regulations.
“Our new guide provides all the information needed to comply with the new licensing regime, as well as new regulations when they are issued,” he said.
To get a copy of the Croner guide, go to www.croner.co.uk/pubandbar