Planning and licensing are separate regimes, but both must support the way a site trades. Woods Whur reviews existing planning permissions against proposed licensing hours and activities, identifying any gaps early so that planning and licensing applications are sequenced and framed to work together.
Securing the right use and hours
Use classes and categories can restrict how a premises is operated, from restaurants and bars to betting offices, bingo halls, and Adult Gaming Centres. Woods Whur prepares planning applications to extend hours or change use where needed, ensuring that planning consents reflect the intended licensing model and avoid situations where a licence cannot be fully used.
Managing outside areas and external spaces
Terraces, beer gardens, and external gaming or seating areas are often tightly controlled under both planning and licensing policies, especially in busy urban locations. Woods Whur advises on conditions for outside spaces, including hours, capacity, and noise controls, so that external trading supports the business without triggering enforcement action.
Controlling signage and advertisements
External signs, fascias, and illuminated displays may require advertisement consent, and non-compliant signage can lead to action under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Woods Whur helps operators secure appropriate consents for branding and promotional material, avoiding prosecutions or removal notices that can disrupt operations and damage profile.
Experience with change of use applications nationwide
From high streets to city centres, change of use applications are crucial for gambling and leisure operators moving into new premises. Woods Whur has experience with successful applications for Adult Gaming Centre and other sui generis uses across the country, combining local policy insight and sector knowledge to give proposals the strongest possible planning platform.
