Pubs and clubs in Milton Keynes face late-night levy

In a letter to Milton Keynes Council, Ed McLean said that the imposition of a levy on venues which sell alcohol after 1am would ensure “Milton Keynes continues to be seen and perceived to be a safe place to socialise, shop and work.”

He added that 166 licensed premises would be affected should a late-night levy be introduced from 1am, and that any premises that sign up to the “Safer Socialising Award” would see a discount of 30%.

The council’s licensing committee is set to consider proposals for a levy in a initial meeting on 6 March at which early morning restriction orders (EMROs) will also be discussed.

However, the levy is currently the preferred option for the police.

Deputy commander McLean said that the money raised would not be retained by the police, but would instead go towards funding projects managed by the SaferMK initiative, which are geared at tacking alcohol related problems in Milton Keynes.

He added in his letter: “I am sure you will agree that funding streams are becoming less accessible and all of these initiatives are vulnerable to local of future funding; any potential loss could see an increase in crime and crime-related incidents.”

Should the licensing committee decide to introduce a late-night levy, it will need to issue a full public consultation detailing:
1. date on which a LNL will apply;
2. the late night supply period;
3. permitted exemption categories;
4. permitted reduction categories;
5. specified proportion (split of funds between Police and Licensing Authority)