Published on Friday 03 July 2020
Pubs with existing licences to sell alcohol to take away will be the only places able to do so when they re-open tomorrow, the council warns.
As pub goers eagerly await the reopening of their favourite haunts tomorrow Dorset Police and BCP Council are reminding everybody that some of the expected changes as announced by the Government around blanket off-sales for all establishments selling alcohol, will not be in place for this weekend.
Only premises with existing licenses to sell alcohol to take away will be able to offer this service to their customers at this time.
Central Government is still reviewing the changes required to relax both these conditions and those around the fast track issuing of pavement licences. Their decision is expected by the end of July.
Punters are also reminded about what they can expect when hospitality businesses re-open tomorrow:
- No live or loud music
- Table service and seating only indoors
- Contactless payments and advanced bookings, where possible
- Track and trace information encouraged for all customers entering premises
Cllr Vikki Slade, Leader of BCP Council, said: "We want to reassure residents that the Council is working with Dorset Police to ensure that pubs and restaurants will be re-opening adhering to their licensing conditions and in line with the latest Government guidelines to provide the safest possible enjoyable environment for both customers and employees".
"So, we want to remind residents that they must expect changes when they visit these establishments and it will be a different experience from what they have known before."
Alcohol licensing Inspector Matt Baxter, of Dorset Police, confirmed that; "We are working hard with our partner agencies and the local authority to support local business to discharge their obligations under the Licensing Act and COVID-19 regulations.
"We recognise the difficulty licensed premises have had implementing the changes and we have drafted joint guidance to help support establishments in their bid to reopen.
"Going to the pub will be very different to what it used to be for a while and we would urge the public to act responsibly and considerately if they are intending to go out this Saturday or over the coming weeks."