If you’re hoping to open a new licensed premises in a busy area, it’s essential to understand Cumulative Impact Zones (CIZs) and Cumulative Impact Policies (CIPs). These policies can significantly affect your chance of being able to open a licensed premises, due to the area already being ‘saturated’ with them.
Our expert Licensing solicitors can help you prepare a robust application and address local policy concerns. We’ve successfully advised businesses across the country, including in areas like Brick Lane, Shoreditch, Chelsea, Westminster and Hackney.
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Cumulative Impact Zones Explained
A Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) is a designated area where a local authority has identified that the number, type, or density of licensed premises is contributing to crime, disorder or public nuisance.
Cumulative impact zones or Special Policy Areas (SPAs) are set out in a local authority’s Statement of Licensing Policy and are usually found in areas with a high concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs and off-licences. Across England and Wales, there are estimated to be over 200 cumulative impact areas.
Examples of cumulative impact zones we regularly advise on include Brick Lane and Bethnal Green in Tower Hamlets, Dalston and Shoreditch in Hackney, and Borough and Bankside in Southwark.
Cumulative Impact Policies in England
A Cumulative Impact Policy (CIP) sets out how a licensing authority will approach applications for new premises within a cumulative impact zone. While the Licensing Act 2003 does not create a blanket ban on licences in these areas, cumulative impact policies usually introduce a rebuttable presumption of refusal.
This means that:
- New premises licence applications are often refused unless in exceptional circumstances
- Variations that increase licensable activities or operating hours may face objections
- The burden is on the applicant to show the application will not add to cumulative impact
Each local authority applies its policy differently, making it essential to understand how cumulative impact policies are interpreted at a local level. Our expert solicitors can give legal advice on this.
What Is a Cumulative Impact Assessment?
A cumulative impact assessment (CIA) is carried out by a local licensing authority to decide whether there are too many licensed premises in a particular area. They use crime statistics, complaints from residents and police data to assess whether the number and type of venues are causing problems.
If the authority decided that the area is “saturated”, it may introduce a cumulative impact policy.
This means new licence applications or variations in that area are more likely to be refused, unless the applicant can show convincing evidence that their business will not add to the existing problems.
How Cumulative Impact Affects Licence Applications
If your premises is within a cumulative impact zone, your new premises licence application is more likely to attract objections from the police or environmental health. Without careful preparation, licence applications may be refused. However, cumulative impact policies do not mean an automatic ban.
Many applications succeed with the right strategy and supporting evidence. Expert legal advice can help identify whether your application aligns with local policy exceptions and how best to present your case.
Related Licensing Services
How Our Licensing Solicitors Can Help
If you are applying for a new premises licence or varying an existing one inside a cumulative impact zone, expert support can make all the difference. We have a strong track record of securing licences in the UK.
Our experienced team can advise on whether your premises falls within a CIZ, interpret local policy, prepare and strengthen applications, negotiate with authorities, and represent clients at hearings and appeals.
While these cases can be challenging, having the right legal advice gives you the best chance of success.
Recent Cases
- Bethnal Green Cumulative Impact Policy – Convenience store and off-licence
- Southwark Cumulative Impact Zone – office bar and entertainment space
- Brick Lane Cumulative Impact Zone – Restaurant
- Borough and Bankside Cumulative Impact Zone – Roof Top Bar
- Hackney Special Policy Area – take away
Why Choose TV Edwards?
- Strong representation at hearings and negotiations
- Highly ranked in Legal 500 and Chambers UK
- Specialist licensing and regulatory expertise
- Proven track record in cumulative impact zone applications
- Clear, practical advice explained in jargon-free language
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cumulative impact zone?
A cumulative impact zone is an area designated by a local authority where licensed premises are considered to contribute to crime, disorder or nuisance, resulting in scrutiny of licence applications.
What is the purpose of a cumulative impact assessment?
A cumulative impact assessment is used by a local licensing authority to determine whether the number, type, and density of licensed premises in an area is contributing to problems such as crime, disorder or public nuisance. Its purpose is to provide evidence for the local authority to decide whether to introduce a cumulative impact policy, or to guide decisions on licence applications or changes within that area.
Can I open a club, pub, or takeaway in a cumulative impact zone?
Yes, it is possible to open a club, pub, or takeaway in a cumulative impact zone, but applications are subject to greater scrutiny. Licensing authorities may presume applications will be refused unless you can show that your club, pub, or takeaway will not add to the existing problems in the area. Expert advice and careful preparation of your application can significantly improve your chances of success.
