Prepare for your
Licence Hearing
with us!
Draft started
Application Submitted
Public Notice Published
Under Review
Licence Granted
If you're looking to sell alcohol, provide entertainment, or serve hot food and drinks late at night, you'll need a Premises Licence.
If you're looking to sell alcohol, provide entertainment, or serve hot food and drinks late at night, you'll need a Premises Licence.
Clear
Professional
Well-structured
Don't worry - at Barnab, we make the process simple, fast, and hassle-free.
Don't worry - at Barnab, we make the process simple, fast, and hassle-free.
About
If your application has received objections, and your case is going to a council hearing, we’ll help you prepare a clear, professional presentation, so you can secure your licence.
Can you tell me when your hearing is scheduled for?
Next Thursday!
Could you please share the objections you recevied with us?
Absolutely! I'll upload them here.
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About Hearing Pack
Why You Need a Hearing Pack
What is a Premises Licence?
Why You Need a Hearing Pack
When objections are raised, your licence application goes to a formal hearing.
Many applicants feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to say. That’s where we come in.
Our hearing pack gives you a clear plan, structured arguments, and confidence under pressure.
When objections are raised, your licence application goes to a formal hearing.
Many applicants feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to say. That’s where we come in.
Our hearing pack gives you a clear plan, structured arguments, and confidence under pressure.
A hearing happens when there are objections to your application. Our package is for when:
A hearing happens when there are objections to your application. Our package is for when:
You’ve received objections from neighbours or authorities
You want expert preparation
(without paying a solicitor)
You’re unsure how to challenge objections
Simple as That
Let us guide you
Everything you need to speak with clarity and confidence at your hearing
Tailored Arguments
Objection Responses
Guided Presentation
Licence Hearing
Key Information
Here’s what you need to know about the package
Key Information
Delivery
2-3 working days
Barnab assistance fee
£500 + VAT
Format
Digital pack
What do you need to do?
To create your custom pack, we’ll need the following:
Requirements
Objections Received
Send us the objections exactly as you received them (email or scanned PDF is fine).
Application Documents
Send us the licence application form and plan, if we didn’t prepare them for you.
Any Prior Correspondence
If you’ve already spoken with the council or objectors, let us know what was said. It helps us tailor your responses.
How the process works
Step by step guide to get you through the application process.
Step 1 - Share
Share your objections
Send us the full list of objections, the date of your hearing, and your submitted documents
Step 2 - Hang Tight
We build your hearing pack
We write your opening speech, point-by-point rebuttals, suggested questions, and key points for your closing.
Step 3 - Present
Attend your hearing
Armed with your personalised pack, you attend the hearing and present your case with clarity and confidence.
We have impactful numbers
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
1500+
Customers satisfied since launch
£1M
In costs saved for the applicants
350
Councils we work with
150%
Company growth
Other like you love us
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
JS
Jennifer Smith
I had a great experience with Barnab. They took all the stress out of a process I had been dreading. Highly recommend them to anyone going through the application process.
SM
Sophie Morrison
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
TF
Tobias Farrow
I can’t recommend Barnab highly enough. Our application approved in just a few weeks, with full support and guidance throughout. Super efficient, cost-effective, and seamless.
PM
Paolo M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Something’s not clear? You will find an answer below!
FAQ
What is a licensing hearing?
A licensing hearing happens when objections are made to your licence application. A panel of three councillors will hear both sides — you (the applicant) and those objecting — then make a decision.
Will someone from Barnab attend with me?
No - this is a self-representation package. We prepare all your materials so you can represent yourself effectively. We’ve found this works better, as applicants often present more persuasively than paid representatives. They show the committee that they genuinely need the licence to run their business and it’s a lot on the line for them.
Is it hard to convince the committee to grant the licence?
The starting position is a presumption in favour of granting the licence. It’s up to those making objections to prove that granting it would likely cause problems. If your application is for a modest operation, the odds are in your favour. With a clear, factual presentation, most well-prepared applicants succeed. Our hearing pack is designed to help you do exactly that
What happens at a licensing sub-committee hearing?
The licensing sub-committee (usually 3 councillors) hears your case, objections from residents or responsible authorities (police, environmental health), and reviews all evidence. Each party presents their case, answers questions, and the committee decides whether to grant, refuse, or impose conditions on your licence. Decisions are typically announced the same day with written confirmation following.
How much does licensing hearing pack cost?
Barnab charges £500 + VAT for complete hearing preparation including evidence bundle preparation, objector negotiation support, hearing bundle compilation, and strategic advice. You represent yourself at the hearing using our professionally prepared materials. This is significantly less than traditional solicitors who charge £1,500-£3,000+ VAT.
Can I represent myself at a licensing hearing?
Yes, you can represent yourself at a licensing hearing. Barnab prepares all the evidence, hearing bundles, and documentation you need to present your case professionally. We provide strategic guidance on how to address objections and present your case effectively, making self-representation much more manageable.
How do I prepare for a licensing hearing?
Preparation includes: reviewing all objections and understanding concerns, gathering evidence (crime stats, noise assessments, operating schedules), preparing witness statements, creating a hearing bundle with all documents, drafting opening and closing statements, and identifying proposed conditions to address concerns. Barnab handles all preparation so you can confidently represent yourself at the hearing.
What evidence do I need for a licensing hearing?
Evidence typically includes: operating schedule showing how you'll promote licensing objectives, crime statistics for the area, noise management plans, staff training records, CCTV specifications, age verification policies, dispersal policies, and witness statements from managers or security. The specific evidence needed depends on the objections raised. Barnab compiles all necessary evidence into a professional hearing bundle.
Can objections to my premises licence be withdrawn before the hearing?
Yes. Barnab helps you negotiate with objectors (residents, police, environmental health) before the hearing to address their concerns through agreed conditions or operational changes. If concerns are resolved, objectors can withdraw their representations, potentially avoiding a hearing entirely. Early negotiation is key to successful outcomes.
What happens if my licensing application is refused at hearing?
If refused, you receive written reasons within 7 days. You can appeal to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days of the decision. Appeals are heard fresh (de novo) meaning the court reviews all evidence again. However, if you lose the appeal, you may be ordered to pay the other parties' legal costs, which can be substantial.
How long does a licensing hearing take?
Most licensing hearings last 1-3 hours depending on complexity and number of objections. Simple cases with few objectors may be completed in under an hour. Complex cases with multiple responsible authorities and resident objections can take half a day. The sub-committee usually announces their decision the same day.
Choose plan
Licence Hearing Application
If you need assistance in preparing for your upcoming premises licence hearing, we will get you ready!
Total
£500
+ VAT
No complicated forms
100% accurate and hassle-free
Would you like to speak to us?
Choose a time, and we will give you a callback for a free 10-minute consultation!
Licence Hearing
Key Information
Here’s what you need to know about the package
Key Information
Delivery
2-3 working days
Barnab assistance fee
£500 + VAT
Format
Digital pack
What do you need to do?
To create your custom pack, we’ll need the following:
Requirements
Objections Received
Send us the objections exactly as you received them (email or scanned PDF is fine).
Application Documents
Send us the licence application form and plan, if we didn’t prepare them for you.
Any Prior Correspondence
If you’ve already spoken with the council or objectors, let us know what was said. It helps us tailor your responses.
How the process works
Step by step guide to get you through the application process.
Step 1 - Share
Share your objections
Send us the full list of objections, the date of your hearing, and your submitted documents
Step 2 - Hang Tight
We build your hearing pack
We write your opening speech, point-by-point rebuttals, suggested questions, and key points for your closing.
Step 3 - Present
Attend your hearing
Armed with your personalised pack, you attend the hearing and present your case with clarity and confidence.
We have impactful numbers
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
1500+
Customers satisfied since launch
£1M
In costs saved for the applicants
350
Councils we work with
150%
Company growth
Other like you love us
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
JS
Jennifer Smith
I had a great experience with Barnab. They took all the stress out of a process I had been dreading. Highly recommend them to anyone going through the application process.
SM
Sophie Morrison
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
TF
Tobias Farrow
I can’t recommend Barnab highly enough. Our application approved in just a few weeks, with full support and guidance throughout. Super efficient, cost-effective, and seamless.
PM
Paolo M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Something’s not clear? You will find an answer below!
FAQ
What is a licensing hearing?
A licensing hearing happens when objections are made to your licence application. A panel of three councillors will hear both sides — you (the applicant) and those objecting — then make a decision.
Will someone from Barnab attend with me?
No - this is a self-representation package. We prepare all your materials so you can represent yourself effectively. We’ve found this works better, as applicants often present more persuasively than paid representatives. They show the committee that they genuinely need the licence to run their business and it’s a lot on the line for them.
Is it hard to convince the committee to grant the licence?
The starting position is a presumption in favour of granting the licence. It’s up to those making objections to prove that granting it would likely cause problems. If your application is for a modest operation, the odds are in your favour. With a clear, factual presentation, most well-prepared applicants succeed. Our hearing pack is designed to help you do exactly that
What happens at a licensing sub-committee hearing?
The licensing sub-committee (usually 3 councillors) hears your case, objections from residents or responsible authorities (police, environmental health), and reviews all evidence. Each party presents their case, answers questions, and the committee decides whether to grant, refuse, or impose conditions on your licence. Decisions are typically announced the same day with written confirmation following.
How much does licensing hearing pack cost?
Barnab charges £500 + VAT for complete hearing preparation including evidence bundle preparation, objector negotiation support, hearing bundle compilation, and strategic advice. You represent yourself at the hearing using our professionally prepared materials. This is significantly less than traditional solicitors who charge £1,500-£3,000+ VAT.
Can I represent myself at a licensing hearing?
Yes, you can represent yourself at a licensing hearing. Barnab prepares all the evidence, hearing bundles, and documentation you need to present your case professionally. We provide strategic guidance on how to address objections and present your case effectively, making self-representation much more manageable.
How do I prepare for a licensing hearing?
Preparation includes: reviewing all objections and understanding concerns, gathering evidence (crime stats, noise assessments, operating schedules), preparing witness statements, creating a hearing bundle with all documents, drafting opening and closing statements, and identifying proposed conditions to address concerns. Barnab handles all preparation so you can confidently represent yourself at the hearing.
What evidence do I need for a licensing hearing?
Evidence typically includes: operating schedule showing how you'll promote licensing objectives, crime statistics for the area, noise management plans, staff training records, CCTV specifications, age verification policies, dispersal policies, and witness statements from managers or security. The specific evidence needed depends on the objections raised. Barnab compiles all necessary evidence into a professional hearing bundle.
Can objections to my premises licence be withdrawn before the hearing?
Yes. Barnab helps you negotiate with objectors (residents, police, environmental health) before the hearing to address their concerns through agreed conditions or operational changes. If concerns are resolved, objectors can withdraw their representations, potentially avoiding a hearing entirely. Early negotiation is key to successful outcomes.
What happens if my licensing application is refused at hearing?
If refused, you receive written reasons within 7 days. You can appeal to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days of the decision. Appeals are heard fresh (de novo) meaning the court reviews all evidence again. However, if you lose the appeal, you may be ordered to pay the other parties' legal costs, which can be substantial.
How long does a licensing hearing take?
Most licensing hearings last 1-3 hours depending on complexity and number of objections. Simple cases with few objectors may be completed in under an hour. Complex cases with multiple responsible authorities and resident objections can take half a day. The sub-committee usually announces their decision the same day.
Choose plan
Licence Hearing
If you need assistance in preparing for your upcoming premises licence hearing, we will get you ready!
Total
£500
+ VAT
Would you like to speak to us?
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Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz
Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz
Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz