Apply for a provisional statement

If you apply for a provisional statement, we can tell you how likely it is that we will grant a premises licence for proposed premises.

It is useful to do this if you are constructing, extending or altering a premises to use for licensable activities. It also may help you get investment for these purposes.

Where there are no changes in circumstances, a provisional statement provides some assurance that a premises licence may be granted. However, if you have all necessary information, you may apply directly for a premises licence (regardless of whether or not the premises has been built).

Sections 29 to 32 of the Licensing Act 2003 regulate provisional statements.

Who can apply for a provisional statement

You can apply for a provisional statement if:

You have a legal interest in the premises
You are 18 or over
You have the right to work in the UK

An applicant for a provisional statement can be an individual or a business, for example a finance company, firm of architects or a building company.

The person applying for a provisional statement does not have to be the same person who may eventually apply for the premises licence.

Applying for a premises licence instead

If you are in a position to provide comprehensive plans and an operating schedule giving details of:

The relevant licensable activities proposed
The times such activities will take place
The times the premises will be open to the public
Information about the designated premises supervisor for the premises where alcohol is to be supplied
The steps you will take to promote the licensing objectives

then you can submit an application for a premises licence instead.