Long-Overdue Licensing Reform Offers Hope for a Modern, Balanced System Says NTIA
10 October 2025 - Press releaseStatement from Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association on the Government’s “Cheers to Change” Licensing Consultation Announcement
“We are pleased to see the Government’s announcement of an expedited consultation period following the Licensing Taskforce’s recent recommendations, as part of the ‘Cheers to Change: Red Tape Review’. It is encouraging to see that the majority of the recommendations from the Licensing Sprint are being considered, and that this fast-track review will give industry operators, landlords, and communities a genuine opportunity to help shape the future of licensing in the UK.
The commitment to cutting outdated red tape that has long held back pubs, bars, and venues — while creating space for more live music, food, and community events — is a positive step forward. There is a palpable sense of belief across the sector that this could deliver meaningful change and drive progress towards a more permissive and enabling licensing policy, beginning with the development of a National Licensing Framework.
However, while these proposals represent an important shift in the licensing landscape, it is vital to recognise that they will not, in isolation, resolve the deep economic pressures currently engulfing the sector. These reforms must form part of a broader effort to address business rates, cost inflation, and workforce challenges if we are to truly revitalise our high streets and night-time economy.
That said, these opportunities for reform are long overdue. We welcome the Government’s recognition of the vital role our venues play in the cultural and economic life of our communities, and we look forward to working collaboratively to ensure these changes deliver a modern, balanced, and supportive licensing system fit for the future.”
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