Part 1Provisions for Combatting Crime and Disorder
Chapter 2Provisions for combatting alcohol-related disorder
Closure of unlicensed premises
20Applications for closure orders
1
Where a closure notice has been served under section 19(3), a constable or (as the case may be) the local authority concerned may make a complaint to a justice of the peace acting for the petty sessions area in which the premises are situated for an order under section 21 (a “closure order”).
2
A complaint under subsection (1) shall be made not less than seven days, and not more than six months, after the service of the closure notice under section 19(3).
3
No complaint shall be made under subsection (1) if the constable or (as the case may be) the local authority is satisfied that—
a
the use of the premises for the unlicensed sale of intoxicating liquor for consumption on, or in the vicinity of, the premises has ceased; and
b
there is no reasonable likelihood that the premises will be so used in the future.
4
Where a complaint has been made to a justice of the peace under subsection (1), the justice may issue a summons to answer to the complaint.
5
The summons shall be directed to—
a
the person on whom the closure notice was served under section 19(3); and
b
any other person on whom the closure notice was served under section 19(5)(a).
6
Where a summons is served in accordance with subsections (4) and (5), a notice stating the date, time and place at which the complaint will be heard shall be served on all persons on whom the closure notice was served under section 19(4) and (5)(b).
7
The procedure on a complaint for a closure order shall (except as otherwise provided) be in accordance with the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (c. 43).