Licensing Reform: From Order to Chaos?

The benefits claimed by the government for the Licensing Act 2003 include simplification and modernisation, increased freedom on how we spend our leisure time, greater protection for those who live in the vicinity of licensed premises and a reduction in crime and disorder. Yet there is no research to support these claims and the liberalisation of alcohol availability comes at a time of acute concern over alcohol-related problems. This article critically assesses the main provisions of the Act, sets them in their wider context and examines practical experience with the Act to date.