IOA view on premises closure

The IOA have responded to a Home Office consultation, covering England and Wales, proposing an increase in the available maximum closure time of premises that cause serious nuisance, disorder, or criminal behaviour. Our response focussed on the noise nuisance implications of the proposals. Closure orders, issued by the magistrates’ court, are sought by the police and local authorities to respond quickly enabling them to  local communities from ongoing harm by prohibiting access and use of the premises. Currently a business or premises can be closed for up to three months initially, which can be extended by the court for a further three months.

In our repsonse we support increasing the available maximum duration of closure orders to twelve months where this enables better protection of communities from serious and persistent nuisance or criminal behaviour. However, we consider that the powers should remain evidence based, proportionate and subject to robust judicial scrutiny. Particular care is required where closure is based primarily on nuisance, including noise nuisance, and Government should ensure appropriate evidential standards, periodic review, and consideration of whether acoustic or management interventions could achieve the necessary protection without prolonged closure.

Full response