Kingston Council is inviting residents to share their views on its updated Licensing Policy for 2026 – 31.

The Council is updating its Licensing Policy, which sets out how it licenses and regulates businesses that sell or supply alcohol, provide entertainment, or offer late-night refreshment across the borough and it wants to hear your views.

Kingston Council said: "Our aim is to keep our community vibrant, welcoming, and safe for everyone.

"By setting clear, fair standards for venues that sell alcohol, serve late-night food, or offer regulated entertainment, the policy supports a lively local economy while protecting residents and visitors alike.

"It also safeguards children and vulnerable people and gives local residents, businesses, and the police a strong voice in shaping how licences are granted and managed.

"Together, we can foster a thriving day- and night-time scene that brings people together and keeps our neighbourhoods friendly and secure."

The draft Statement of Licensing Policy 2026–2031 explains how the council proposes to carry out its licensing responsibilities, including how it considers applications from businesses. 

The policy guides decisions on licence applications from businesses that wish to:

• Sell or supply alcohol
• Provide regulated entertainment
• Sell hot food or drinks between 11pm and 5am (late-night refreshment)

The updated draft introduces two important additions designed to strengthen community safety and support responsible growth:

• Protecting Vulnerable Adults: New measures encourage licensed venues and event organisers to create safer spaces for everyone. This includes staff training, visible anti-harassment messaging, adoption of initiatives such as "Ask for Angela," improved lighting, and guidance to help customers travel home safely.
• Guidance for Delivery Services: With more businesses offering food, drink, and alcohol delivery, the policy sets expectations for robust age-verification at purchase and delivery, the safety of delivery drivers and premises, and ways to reduce noise or disturbance—for example, using low-emission or pedal bikes for late-night deliveries.

You can submit your views here.

If you have any questions or need any of the information in a different format, you can get in touch with the council by emailing [email protected] or calling its contact centre on 020 8547 5000 and ask for a member of the engagement team to call you back.