The Beacon award scheme that recognises excellence in local government will include a new category titled 'After Dark: Managing the night time economy' for the upcoming round ten. The scheme aims to recognise and reward innovation and excellence in local government through accreditation of Beacon status. Each year new themes are chosen by ministers to reflect key government priorities. Councils wishing to apply for round 10 must first submit an intention to apply, followed by a full application by 11th July 2008.
The new After Dark category sets out a range of criteria which should be met for successful applications including:
- An ambitious night-time vision, strategy and action plan with clear priorities and measurable outcomes
- High level political and officer support with strong partnership buy in
- Clear coordination of regulatory services
- The inclusion of night time economy objectives within Local Area Agreements and Local Strategic partnerships
- Evidence of community engagement
- A history of proactive and innovative use of existing legislation
- Demonstration of local application of best practice
- Evidence of creative solutions to overcome particular challenges
- Genuine, flexible and effective partnerships specifically working for the night time economy
- Progress in delivering a safe and diverse night time economy
- Achievement of national or local awards relating to the night time economy
The new After Dark category reflects the continued focus of the 2007 updated national alcohol strategy Safe. Sensible. Social to develop robust approaches to improving town centres and reducing alcohol related crime and disorder. Progress has yet yet to be demonstrated following the Review of the impact of the Licensing act 2003 which has so far made no significant change to alcohol related crime and disorder levels across the UK. This year the alcohol strategy local implementation toolkit was launched to support local authorities in delivering cross cutting alcohol strategies, including a key theme of community safety, crime and anti-social behaviour that includes a range of recommendations on tackling alcohol problems in the night time economy.
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