Decision - Future Licensing Panel Hearing Arrangements

RESOLVED: 1. That Committee noted 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 March 2024. This does not preclude holding a panel hearing in person where the individual circumstances of an application may warrant it. 2. That Committee delegated 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 March 2024. 3. That the Committee recommended 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 to hold Licensing Panel hearings virtually, while retaining the option to hold an in-person hearing where an application’s circumstances warrant it. It also proposed temporarily delegating authority to the Executive Director - Governance, People & Resources to determine hearing arrangements after consultation with the Chair and group spokespersons.