Public consultation on liquor licensing market diversity and innovation

The Department for Communities is seeking views on whether current liquor licensing rules support a wider range of venues

The Department for Communities is conducting a public consultation on how well the liquor licensing system in Northern Ireland supports market diversity and innovation.

Liquor licensing is governed by the Licensing (Northern Ireland) Order 1996. Under this law, anyone who wants to sell alcohol must hold the correct licence, which is granted by the courts.

Background to the review

Under section 23 of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, the Department appointed an independent consortium, led by the University of Stirling, to review the liquor licensing system.

The Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing System in Northern Ireland, including the Surrender Principle, was published on 21 February 2025. The report made 26 recommendations and highlighted a lack of diversity in licensed venues. It suggested that new types of licences could help support a wider range of venues and promote cultural activity.

Why your views are important

The Department is committed to exploring the following areas:

• how the aims of Recommendation 18 could be met within the current licensing system
• what changes might be needed if the existing framework does not adequately support market diversity

The consultation is open to anyone with an interest in liquor licensing in Northern Ireland. This includes members of the public, existing and potential licence holders, and organisations with a role or interest in the licensing system.

The Department would also welcome views from organisations such as trade bodies, religious organisations, public sector bodies and health organisations.

The survey is expected to take around 10 minutes to complete.

The consultation closes on Tuesday 23 June 2026.

Share your views on the future of liquor licensing.

First published 28 May 2026