Decision - Review of Licensing Panel Hearings Arrangements

RESOLVED: 1. That Committee notes the ongoing risk of fluctuation in relation to Covid infection rates as well as the additional benefits of holding virtual meetings in terms of enabling participation in the Licensing process and recommends that Licensing Panels continue to meet virtually until June 2023. This does not preclude holding a panel hearing in person where the individual circumstances of an application may warrant it. 2. That Committee delegates authority to the Executive Director - Governance, People & Resources after consultation with the Chair and group spokespersons to determine arrangements for Licensing Panel hearings until the next Licensing Committee in June 2023. 3. That the Committee recommends that in exercising this authority the above officer takes into account all relevant factors including latest public health and government guidance, the situation with other council meetings and the need to ensure fair and transparent procedures in accordance with the Hearings Regulations 2005

The report proposed continuing virtual Licensing Panel hearings until June 2023 because of uncertainty around Covid-19 infection rates and the benefits of remote participation. It also proposed delegating authority to the Executive Director – Governance, People & Resources, after consultation, to determine hearing arrangements and retain the option of holding hearings in person where appropriate.