Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011

The Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 covers police governance, licensing, Parliament Square controls, drug control powers, and some criminal procedure changes. For businesses, the key parts are in Part 2 on licensing and, for some, Part 3 on Parliament Square controls. The Act amends the Licensing Act 2003, introducing changes to objections, reviews, temporary event notices, late night levies, and fee consequences.

Businesses should focus on how these changes affect their licensing obligations rather than treating the Act as a standalone code.

Businesses selling alcohol to the public or members are most affected. This includes pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, off-licences, supermarkets, convenience stores, and event organisers. Even if alcohol sales are a small part of your business, the Act can impact your licensing obligations. Additionally, businesses operating in or near Parliament Square may face restrictions on certain activities, especially those involving amplified noise equipment or public events.

The Act becomes relevant at key moments in the life of a licensed business. Common trigger points include applying for a new premises licence, varying hours, planning a one-off event, paying annual licence fees, responding to complaints, or checking whether your local authority has introduced a late night levy. Local concerns can lead to formal licensing issues more easily due to the Act's changes around objections and reviews.

The Act introduces several licensing amendments. Licensing authorities are now responsible authorities, the vicinity test for certain representations and reviews has been removed, and the evidential burden on licensing authorities has been reduced. Businesses should maintain clear records of their licence conditions, fee payments, incident logs, and refusals to ensure compliance and reduce enforcement risks.

The Act creates the framework for a late night levy, allowing local authorities to charge businesses authorised to sell alcohol during late night hours. The levy funds policing and managing the night-time economy. Businesses trading late should assess whether the levy applies to them and consider the financial and operational impact of extended hours.

The Act changes rules around temporary event notices, including who may object, conditions, late notices, and timing. Businesses using pop-up bars, seasonal events, or private functions should plan events carefully to comply with notice requirements and manage local impact. Event planning should include considerations for entry, noise control, age verification, and neighbour relations.