Local Alcohol Policy

The Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 allows councils to develop a Local Alcohol Policy to set rules around the sale and supply of alcohol which are tailored to local needs and preferences. These rules may relate to licensed premises such as bars, restaurants, social clubs, supermarkets, and bottle stores, and can apply to specific areas or across the whole city.

A Local Alcohol Policy may include policies on opening hours, location, proximity, density, one-way door conditions, and other discretionary conditions. A LAP can also include some policies related to licensed events such as festivals. These policies can help to manage alcohol availability in the district to reduce alcohol-related harm.

2026

Council amended the 2025 version of the Local Alcohol Policy on 25 March 2026.

View the LAP 2026 consultation page

• Consultation began 6 January 2026. View the Statement of Proposal - (PDF, 499KB)
• Consultation finished 13 February 2026. View the Draft Local Alcohol Policy - (PDF, 443KB)
• Hearings were held 24 February 2026. View the Report for Adoption - (PDF, 2.3MB)
• Adoption date was 25 March 2026. View the Adoption Minute - (PDF, 258KB)