Until there is definitive guidance from Government on this, it is difficult to answer questions about what premises will have to do to be able to reopen their doors. 

However, here is some simple advice we can offer to licence holders in anticipation of reopening:

• Read your licence:
  • Check what it permits and what it prohibits

    (For example – does it permit off sales? Is there a condition preventing patrons leaving the licensed area with open drinks containers?)

  • Does it contain any licence condition that would prevent you from opening in the way you had envisaged?

• Is your premises in an area subject to a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO)? 
  • If so, does that PSPO restrict the consumption of alcohol?

• Do you have sufficient arrangements in place for cleaning, handwashing and toilet facilities?

• What will you do if it rains?

• Will your plans impact on neighbouring businesses and residents?
  (For example, socially-distanced queuing on public highway)

• Do you need to make any changes to your licence or submit a Temporary Event Notice?

• Have you carried out a COVID-19 Risk Assessment?

• How will your plans differ if the social distancing limit is changed from 2M to something else?

Check your licence on the public register, visit:

View Public Space Protection Orders, visit:

Apply for licence variations or Temporary Event Notices