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The Swindon Borough Council has decided to maintain the existing off-licence restrictions in the Broadgreen area for an additional three years. This decision follows a review by the council’s licensing committee, which highlighted the positive impact of the "cumulative impact assessment" (CIA) on local crime rates. Implemented initially to curb the proliferation of off-licences and associated anti-social behavior, the CIA allows the council to reject new alcohol sale applications when they are considered likely to undermine public safety and order.

The Impact of the Cumulative Impact Assessment

Since the introduction of the CIA, Wiltshire Police data indicates a stabilization in alcohol-related crimes. In 2019, the Broadgreen area recorded 49 alcohol-related incidents and 82 crimes. These numbers saw a decline during the lockdown-impacted year of 2020, with 47 incidents and 60 crimes. The trend continued in 2023 with 46 incidents and 60 crimes. The council's report suggests that the stabilization of these figures demonstrates the effectiveness of the CIA in maintaining public order.

Community and Business Support

The council’s decision to extend the CIA was bolstered by a public consultation, which saw a significant majority of local residents and businesses support the measure. Of those who responded, 85% favored the continuation of the policy. Respondents cited the need for regulatory measures to control anti-social behavior and petty crime associated with easily accessible alcohol. One local resident noted the longstanding reputation of Broadgreen for such issues, emphasizing the necessity of measures to manage the night-time economy.

Licensing Committee’s Report

The licensing committee’s report clarified that the CIA does not impose a "blanket ban" on new off-licences but requires each application to be assessed on its merits. The CIA can be used to refuse applications where the potential for harm is evident, unless the applicant can demonstrate that their operations will not undermine licensing objectives, such as the prevention of crime and disorder. The report highlighted the value of the CIA in managing new and changing licensing applications, stating that it has been crucial in addressing the saturation of off-licences and the resultant public safety issues.

Continuing Measures

The policy's extension will allow for ongoing control over the number of off-licences in the Broadgreen area, helping to maintain the stability in crime rates observed over the past few years. The council plans to review the CIA again in three years to assess its continued effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments.

The decision to extend the CIA in Swindon's Broadgreen area underscores the council's commitment to public safety and crime prevention. With substantial support from the community and evidence of stabilized crime rates, the extension is seen as a necessary measure to continue mitigating alcohol-related issues in the area. The policy ensures that each new application for an off-licence is carefully considered, maintaining a balanced approach to licensing that prioritizes the welfare of the community.