Summary
The Department for Communities is conducting a public consultation on the effectiveness of the current liquor licensing arrangements in supporting market diversity and innovation.
Documents
- Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing system in NI - report
- Department for Communities’ response to the report of the Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing System in Northern Ireland, including the Surrender Principle
Consultation description
Under section 23 of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (NI) 2021 the Department appointed an independent consortium, led by the University of Stirling, to undertake a comprehensive review of the liquor licensing system in Northern Ireland. The Report of the Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing System in Northern Ireland, including the Surrender Principle (the Report) was published on 21 February 2025 and outlined 26 comprehensive recommendations.
In light of the authors’ observation as to a lack of diversity in licensed venue types in Northern Ireland Recommendation 18 proposed the creation of a “Cultural Venue” licence. The authors did not recommend a definition of “Cultural Venue” but suggested that ‘licences should be created, prioritising businesses that would increase the diversity of venue types and/or promote cultural activities.’
In its Response to the Report, published on the 18 November, the Department recognised the licensing regime should, where possible, support greater market diversity, and committed to:
- explore how far the objectives of Recommendation 18 could be delivered within the context of the current licensing regime;
- consider potential solutions if it found that the current regime does not adequately support market diversity. This includes the potential introduction of secondary legislation to expand the categories of venue eligible to apply for a place of public entertainment licence.
In light of this commitment, this consultation seeks views from all parties with an interest including members of the public, and current and prospective licensees from across Northern Ireland. The Department would also be interested in hearing from any other interested individuals, parties or organisations for example trade bodies, religious organisations, public sector organisations and health organisations.