Licensing Forum Minute - 4.8.26

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North Ayrshire Licensing Forum
Minute
Date and time: Tuesday 4 August 2026 at 10.00 am
Attendees: David Grier; Isaac Kerr; Councillor Eleanor Collier; Michael McLennan; Michelle Champion;
Miriam Wyllie (Bar One); and Yasser Sadek (Romeo & Juliet).
1. Welcome and relaunch of the Forum
The Forum met for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Members agreed that it should
provide a practical opportunity for the Licensing Board, officers, public-health partners and the licensed
trade to discuss emerging issues and contribute to licensing policy. Wider representation from different
parts of the trade will be encouraged, and future meetings should be available on a hybrid basis to support
participation from across North Ayrshire.
2. Licensing framework and the LSO role
The Forum received an overview of the five licensing objectives and the work of the Licensing Standards
Officer. The LSO's role includes advice and guidance, premises visits and inspections, compliance work,
mediation and reporting to the Licensing Board. Licence holders were encouraged to seek advice before
making alterations or changing operating arrangements.
3. Public health, safeguarding and responsible practice
The Alcohol and Drug Partnership outlined its harm-reduction role and the benefits of closer working with
responsible licensed premises. The Forum discussed the importance of staff awareness, safeguarding
procedures, appropriate intervention and signposting to support. Concern was also expressed about the
limited recent participation of public-health representatives in Licensing Board business, and this will be
raised through the relevant partnership channels.
4. Issues raised by the licensed trade
The Forum discussed current challenges affecting licence holders, including safeguards for alcohol
deliveries, late-opening and entry arrangements, the availability and cost of licensed door stewards, and
wider commercial pressures. The discussion recognised both the need to protect the licensing objectives
and the practical contribution made by responsible premises to customer welfare and community safety.
5. Licensing Policy Statement
The Licensing Policy Statement is due to be reviewed in 2027. Members agreed that the Forum should be
involved at an early stage. Issues raised at this meeting, including alcohol-delivery safeguards and late-
opening arrangements, will be considered as part of that work.
6. Agreed next steps
The Licensing Team will review the background and current operation of the 12.30 am entry restriction
raised at the meeting. The Alcohol and Drug Partnership will raise the question of public-health
participation in Licensing Board business. The Forum will be promoted more widely, and a focused agenda
will be prepared for the next meeting.
7. Next meeting
Tuesday 24 November 2026 was identified as the preferred date for the next meeting, subject to
confirmation. Hybrid attendance arrangements will be explored.