Southwark Council has approved a new licensing policy that will guide the borough's approach to licensing responsibilities for the next five years, covering a range of activities including the sale of alcohol, regulated entertainment, and late-night refreshment.

The Council Assembly, meeting on Wednesday 18 March 2026, agreed to the publication of the Southwark Statement of Licensing Policy for 2026-2031. This policy outlines how the council intends to manage its licensing responsibilities under the Licensing Act 2003, aiming to balance the needs of businesses with the protection of the community.

The policy focuses on promoting the four key licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The Council's Statement of Licensing Policy was agreed to, setting the framework for licensing decisions until 2031.

Policy Scope and Objectives

The Southwark Statement of Licensing Policy for 2026-2031 covers several key areas:

  • The sale by retail of alcohol.
  • The supply of alcohol by or on behalf of a club to its members.
  • The provision of regulated entertainment, which includes performances of plays, exhibitions of films, indoor sporting events, boxing or wrestling, live music, playing of recorded music, dance performances, and similar forms of entertainment.
  • The provision of late-night refreshment, defined as the supply of hot food or hot drink to the public between 23:00 and 05:00.

Map of Southwark council wards
Map of Southwark council wardsSource: Council Assembly papers, 18 March 2026

Consultation and Approval

Before the policy's approval, a comprehensive review and public consultation were conducted. This process involved engaging with businesses and community groups, resulting in 140 responses. The majority of respondents found the draft policy to be clear, well-structured, and balanced, with robust support for the continuation of the four statutory licensing objectives.

The full details of the policy can be found in the Statement of Licensing Policy 2026 - 2031.

The Council Assembly meeting details are available in the Public reports pack Wednesday 18-Mar-2026 19.00 Council Assembly.