Alcohol Licensing
A proven advocate for Licensing Act 2003 applications nationwide – from festivals and nightclubs to supermarkets and independents – Chris triumphs in contested hearings against police, environmental health, and resident opposition. He secured Leeds’ first premises licence in a Cumulative Impact ‘Red’ Zone and has led on licences for major events such as the 2019 World Cycling Championships Fan Zone, Mint Festival, and ‘Appetite on the Farm’, leveraging close Safety Advisory Group (SAG) ties. His festival expertise was recognised with the highy regarded Legal 500 acclaim.

Chris works heavily in the Late Night Refreshment sector, securing premises licences for quick service restaurant operators and franchisees. Highlights include securing a 03:00hrs premises licence for a quick service restaurant in Leicester Square, successfully overcoming the Westminster City Council Cumulative Impact Policy.

Gambling Licensing
Chris excels in high-stakes Gambling Commission operating licence reviews for remote and non-remote operators, securing regulatory settlements to sustain trading. In addition, he has worked with operators in relation to Gambling Commission-led ‘Compliance Assessments’.

Civic & Additional Expertise
Chris handles marriage venue approvals, street cafés, music licences, and sexual entertainment venue (SEV) applications in cities including London, Manchester, and Leeds. He provides due diligence for Premiership football club sales, covering alcohol, track, and stadium licences.

Planning
Chris undertakes ‘Change of Use’ and ‘Extension of Hours’ planning applications for both gambling and licensing clients.