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End-to-End Licensing Management for Commercial Businesses in London & Cambridge
Obtaining a premises licence in the UK can be a complex and time-sensitive process, particularly for commercial operators who need to align licensing, planning, and compliance requirements from the outset.
At Liongate Planning, we provide a fully managed, end-to-end premises licence service for commercial businesses across London and Cambridge. We handle the entire application process on your behalf — from initial assessment and documentation to council coordination and approval support.
Our approach is structured, professional, and aligned with real-world commercial project requirements.
A Specialist Service for Commercial Operators
Our premises licence services are designed for businesses that require a reliable and professionally managed licensing process, without delays, confusion, or regulatory risk.
We work with:
Whether you are launching a new venue, taking over an existing premises, or changing operational hours, we ensure the licensing process is managed efficiently and in full alignment with regulatory expectations.
Our End-to-End Premises Licence Service
Unlike basic application services, Liongate Planning delivers a fully managed licensing solution. We act as your professional representative throughout the process, liaising with relevant authorities and managing all key stages.
Our service typically includes:
We carry out a structured review of your premises, proposed use, and licensing strategy before submission to minimise risks and delays.
- Review of the premises and proposed use
- Licensing risk and strategy assessment
- Guidance on operating hours and licence scope
We prepare and manage all required application forms, operating schedules, and supporting documents to ensure a complete and compliant submission.
- Full preparation of the premises licence application
- Operating schedule drafting
- Supporting documentation coordination
We act as your representative throughout the process, liaising directly with the local authority and managing all communications and procedural steps.
- Direct communication with the local authority
- Managing council queries and revisions
- Coordinating statutory requirements and timelines
Where required, we provide professional support in addressing representations and aligning the application with licensing and compliance expectations.
- Professional handling of representations (if required)
- Licensing conditions alignment
- Compliance-focused advisory throughout the process
A Planning & Compliance-Led Approach
Liongate Planning is not a generic licensing agency.
Our background in planning consultancy and commercial regulatory processes allows us to approach premises licence applications with a broader strategic understanding, particularly where planning, use class, and operational considerations intersect.
This integrated approach is especially valuable for:
- New commercial fit-outs
- Change of use scenarios
- Late-night operations
- Multi-use commercial premises
By aligning licensing with planning and compliance from the outset, we help reduce delays, minimise regulatory risks, and improve the overall quality and robustness of the application.
Our Process
We follow a clear and structured process to manage your premises licence application professionally, efficiently, and in full coordination with the relevant local authority.
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Initial Consultation
We review your premises, business model, and licensing requirements to understand the scope and potential regulatory considerations. -
Licensing & Risk Assessment
We assess licensing risks, operating hours, and strategic factors that may influence the application outcome. -
Application Preparation & Submission
We prepare the full application, operating schedule, and supporting documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance before submission. -
Council Liaison & Process Management
We act as your representative, liaising directly with the local authority and managing all queries, communications, and procedural steps. -
Ongoing Support Until Determination
We provide continued support throughout the determination period, addressing queries, revisions, and compliance matters where required.
Why Choose Liongate Planning
We provide a structured, professional, and commercially focused approach to premises licence applications, going beyond basic form submission to deliver a fully managed and compliance-led service.
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End-to-End Application Management
We manage the entire licensing process on your behalf, from initial assessment to council coordination and determination. -
Planning & Regulatory Expertise
Our background in planning consultancy enables us to identify risks early, particularly where planning, use class, and licensing considerations overlap. -
Direct Council Liaison
We act as your professional representative, handling communications with the local authority and managing procedural requirements throughout the process. -
Commercial Project Understanding
We regularly work with commercial operators, fit-out projects, and new business openings, ensuring the licensing strategy aligns with real operational needs. -
Clear, Structured and Reliable Process
Our methodical approach helps minimise delays, reduce regulatory risks, and improve the overall quality and robustness of each application.
Fees & Pricing
Our fees are determined based on the scope, complexity, and specific requirements of each premises licence application.
As a fully managed, end-to-end service, our pricing reflects the level of professional input, documentation preparation, council coordination, and regulatory support involved throughout the process.
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Type of premises and business model
Different sectors such as restaurants, bars, retail, and hospitality venues may require varying levels of documentation and strategic input. -
Application complexity
Factors such as operating hours, licensable activities, and potential representations can influence the level of work required. -
Location and local authority requirements
Applications in London and major commercial areas may involve additional regulatory considerations and coordination. -
Scope of representation and process management
Our service includes full application preparation, submission, and direct liaison with the relevant local authority.
A clear and transparent fee proposal is provided following an initial consultation and review of your premises and operational requirements.
Please note that statutory costs such as council fees, public notices, and third-party expenses are separate and will be outlined in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does a premises licence application take?
Typical premises licence applications take several weeks, depending on the local authority, application complexity, and whether any representations or consultations arise during the process.
Do I need a premises licence before opening my business?
If your business intends to sell alcohol, provide regulated entertainment, or operate late-night refreshment, a premises licence is generally required before trading.
Can you manage the entire process on our behalf?
Yes. We provide a fully managed, end-to-end service including application preparation, submission, documentation, and direct liaison with the relevant local authority.
Is planning permission related to a premises licence?
In many cases, planning and licensing requirements are closely linked, particularly for new commercial premises, change of use, or late-night operations. Our planning background allows us to identify and address these overlaps at an early stage.
What happens if there are objections to the application?
If representations are received, we provide structured professional support, assisting with responses, revisions, and alignment with licensing and compliance expectations.
Do you work with businesses in London and Cambridge?
Yes. We provide premises licence services for commercial operators across London and Cambridge, with a strong understanding of local authority processes and regulatory expectations.
Start Your Premises Licence Application
If you are planning to open, acquire, or operate a licensed commercial premises in London or Cambridge, Liongate Planning can manage the licensing process on your behalf with a structured and professional approach.
Contact us to discuss your project and licensing requirements.