RESIDENTS and businesses in West Devon are being urged to have their say on a new alcohol and entertainments licensing policy in the borough.

West Devon Borough council will begin a consultation tomorrow (Friday), which runs until November 6.

The renewed policy will determine how the council makes decisions on alcohol and entertainment licensing issues over the next five years.

The policy will also be used by local residents and businesses preparing licensing applications and making representations.

The new version of the policy includes updates to the local licensing strategy and reference to numerous recent changes to legislation, including the Live Music Act. The policy also has a new recommendation for organisers of outdoor public events to contact West Devon Borough Council SAG (Safety Advisory Group) for advice and support before planning an event.

The consultation is open for all local communities and businesses to comment on the new policy. All comments received will be considered once the consultation has closed. The policy will then be published, detailing how the council intends to operate and promote licensing in the area.

Cllr Debo Sellis, chairman of the borough’s planning and licensing committee, said: ‘We are opening up a consultation so everyone in West Devon can help shape the new policy. I ask residents and businesses to comment and have their say about a policy which is important in protecting local residents from disturbances but also encourages local entertainment. The policy needs to be in the best interests of all communities in the borough.’

To read the new policy visit the website at www.westdevon.gov.uk/wdconsultations

Comments can be made by emailing or writing to Licensing Department, West Devon Borough Council, Kilworthy Park, Drake Road, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 0BZ.