NEW licensing regulations covering drinks and entertainment provision by the pub and club trade come into force in the New Year.

The Licensing Act 2003 creates a new licensing authority in every council area in England and Wales.

In the run-up to the introduction of the new legislation, Durham City Council has drawn up and approved a new licensing policy, following consultation.

The new rules will begin to take effect from February, but the city's new licensing manager, Jane Kevan, said it will not be fully operational until November.

Policies promoted in the Durham document comply with a range of criteria set out by the Government, including prevention of crime, disorder, and public nuisance.

Ms Kevan said: "The draft licensing policy was revised slightly after the extensive consultation exercise and the final version was well-received by the council's cabinet members.

"It covers various issues, including opening hours, the cumulative impact of premises, children's access, alcohol and drugs management, nuisance, such as noise and litter and enforcement."

Ms Kevan said the transition period appears to have caused some confusion.

She said: "Magistrates will no longer be responsible for alcohol licensing after November, 2005.

"However, the transition period when the licensing authority may start receiving applications is from February 7.

"During the transition period, the licensing authority will decide on all applications to be effective from November next year."

She said a licence can only be effective before November by the previous method of applying to the magistrates' court for a drinks licence, or to the council for an entertainment licence.

North Durham licensing officer Sergeant Tim Robson said the new regulations will not allow venues with existing late licences to carry them permanently.

"If we find standards are slackening, that under-age drinking is becoming prevalent, or if people are pouring out on to the streets drunk from certain premises, then we can deal with the source of the problem."

He said the force would be "proactive" in monitoring the situation to ensure the new objectives are maintained.

Further information on the new regulations, as they will apply in the Durham area, is available from Ms Kevan, on 0191-301 8786.