Edenbridge licensing seminar tells it straight

Residents, local publicans, restaurant managers and anyone who will be affected by the changes in licensing laws are invited to attend a special seminar at the Working Mens Club, 76 High Street, Edenbridge on Wednesday 24 November from 7pm.

The free seminar, organized by Sevenoaks District Council in conjunction with Edenbridge Town Council, will give an overview of the Licensing Act 2003, feedback about the licensing pre-consultation that has been carried out by the District Council and a question and answer session.

The seminar has been organised after three similar seminars in Sevenoaks completely sold out.

Anthony Garnett, Licensing Manager at Sevenoaks District Council, says: "The previous sessions proved to be such a success that we felt we should give local residents and businesses in Edenbridge the chance attend one. It is very important that we work closely with community on this issue, so if you think you would benefit from the seminar, please do get in touch and book your place before they all go."

As a result of the Licensing Act 2003, the power to grant liquor licences is to move from the Magistrates' Courts to the Council. Although the changes will not come into effect until they have been confirmed by Central Government, they are likely to be in place by late 2005. The licences will cover everything from pubs and off-licences to indoor sporting events, hotels, cinemas and late night take-aways.

To book a place on the seminar on Wednesday 24 November call the Council's Licensing Team on 01732 227339 / 227325 / 227270 or e-mail licensing@sevenoaks.gov.uk