Key developments in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill seeks a 'smokefree generation', tighter vaping laws, expanded smokefree areas, and a retailer licensing scheme.
Read More
Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in instances of premises licence holders becoming insolvent or bankrupt, meaning that the licences then lapse. It is therefore vitally important to remain aware of the severe consequences of a premises licence holder being made bankrupt or entering into any form of individual arrangement.
Licensing|06 April 2022
Insight
The law states that the death or insolvency of the premises licence holder has the effect of lapsing the premises licence with immediate effect. Insolvency can come about by way of bankruptcy, IVA, CVA, dissolution of a company or winding up of a company.
Unless action is taken to protect the premises licence within 28 days, the only way of dealing with the matter is by way of an application for a brand new premises licence, which if granted, may well not be in the same terms as the licence that previously existed.
If you know that a tenant is in financial difficulties, then it may be appropriate to take pre-emptive action to transfer the premises licence in advance. However, many landlords are not party to the tenant’s finances and will not find out that a tenant has become insolvent until it is too late. In these circumstances, there is another option. This is to apply for a “shadow” licence.
A shadow licence is a separate premises licence which simply sits behind the existing one (in the shadows) but is in a different name. If a shadow licence exists and the tenant goes bankrupt etc and the original licence is lost, then the shadow licence can be utilised.
A shadow licence acts as a kind of insurance policy to ensure the licensed activities can continue to operate, and may well be worth the investment.
Contact Us
For assistance with arranging a shadow licence, call our Licensing team on 01332 226 151 or fill in the form below.
Related Services
Knowledge
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill seeks a 'smokefree generation', tighter vaping laws, expanded smokefree areas, and a retailer licensing scheme.
Read MoreThe UK Government’s 2025 VAWG strategy introduces licensing reforms for taxis, PHVs, and sexual entertainment venues to improve public safety.
Read MoreLearn how Cumulative Impact Assessments affect pubs, bars and restaurants and what operators should do to stay compliant.
Read MoreLow and no alcohol drinks are growing in popularity. Licensed venues must still understand ABV thresholds and age-verification rules.
Read MorePlan ahead for England’s FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and ensure your venue meets licensing requirements for serving alcohol.
Read MoreThe Government confirms changes to the Licensing Act 2003, allowing Digital Verification Services (DVS) for age verification.
Read MoreUnderstand the Licensing Hours Extension Bill and how it affects pubs, bars, and licensed venues across the UK.
Read MoreConsultation launched on extended pub hours for FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026 if a home nation reaches the later stages.
Read MoreSubmit Temporary Event Notices (TENs) early for festive events to avoid last-minute issues. Check deadlines and restrictions carefully.
Read MoreSubmit your Temporary Event Notice online. Guidance, deadlines and an easy-to-complete form to support festive and year-round events.
Read moreEssential tips from staff training to responsible drinking, enabling licensed premises to stay safe and compliant, this festive season,
Read MoreEnsure bonfire events safety this year with tips on fireworks, insurance, licences, and notifying neighbours for a safe celebration.
Read MoreScroll to next section
Scroll back to the top
On Monday 29 September, Flint Bishop successfully completed the acquisition of the entire business of Lupton Fawcett LLP. You have been forwarded to the page most relevant to your visit.
Please feel free to explore our website and learn more about our legal services and professionals, including those who have recently joined us from Lupton Fawcett.