Licensing - the Virtual Summer Series 2025

Whether you're looking for the latest update on street trading, need to get a firm grip on variations minor and major or want to understand the developments surrounding alcohol at football grounds, our new online conference will provide you with the information you need, now. Also including reflections from the chair of a licensing board and the definitive caselaw update, this is one conference you won't want to miss!

Chaired by Stephen McGowan of TLT LLP and Scott Blair of Terra Firma Chambers, and with speakers including Councillor Eleanor Collier from North Ayrshire Council, Thomas Ross of Falkirk Council, Sandy Munro from Aberdeen City Council, Michael McDougall of West Dunbartonshire Council and Chloe Crawford from Hill Brown Licensing.

What's being covered?

Alcohol at football grounds

As football officials and fans push for the loosening of restrictions on the consumption of alcohol at football matches, this timely session will re-examine the existing regime, consider what is currently possible and look ahead to what the future landscape might look like.

Stephen McGowan, TLT LLP

Licensing poacher turned gamekeeper

Reflections on previous dealings with Licencing Boards as an operator and how those experiences have informed and shaped my approach to being the Chair of my own Licensing Committee whilst meeting the unforeseen challenges of the position.

Councillor Eleanor Collier, North Ayrshire Council

The role of the LSO – not just the guide?

In this workshop session the statutory role of the LSO will be discussed, including their powers of entry and inspection, compliance powers and duty of fairness. The role of the LSO in providing advice and guidance and administering applications will also be considered as well as whether licensing training is perhaps a role too far. Limitations of the role and whether there is a case for reform will round off the session.

Thomas Ross, Falkirk Council and Scott Blair, Terra Firma Chambers

Regulation and licensing of non-surgical cosmetic procedures

The recent Consultation by the Scottish Government on improving safety in the cosmetic procedures sector has sharply drawn into focus the current regulatory regime. This session will consider the current regime and discuss the implications of the proposed changes.

Michael McDougall, West Dunbartonshire Council

Minor v major variations

This session will explore minor variations, major variations and the grey areas in between.

Chloe Crawford, Hill Brown Licensing

Street trading from the local authority’s perspective

This session will look at some recurring issues, problems and misconceptions around street trading licensing.

Sandy Munro, Aberdeen City Council

A mid-summer caselaw review

In this overview of developments in caselaw Scott will consider Clara House PHD Ltd v Aberdeenshire Licensing Board, a recent Scottish appeal decision on a premises licence review, look at other pending appeals and give an overview of licensing caselaw from England in the last year.

Scott Blair, Terra Firma Chambers