THE impact of licensing regulations on the local economy could be included in a council’s policy statement following concerns raised by councillors.

However they were told applications which come to a small sub-committee of councillors when objections have been made would still have to be decided in line with consideration of the four objectives of the 2003 licensing act which applies across Wales and England.

Those objectives are the prevention of crime and disorder, prevention of public nuisance, public safety and protection of children from harm.

Monmouthshire County Council has had to review its licensing policy ahead of it being updated, in line with legislation, every five years with the latest version to cover the period 2025 to 2030.

The draft policy was presented to the council’s licensing committee where Conservative member Alistair Neill questioned why promoting the local economy isn’t also........

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