A group representing news organizations is cautioning that a proposed revision of pub licenses to aid struggling establishments may have negative repercussions for local newspapers. The News Media Association asserts that while some recommendations like extending licensing hours are sensible, eliminating the obligation to publish licensing application notices in local papers could severely harm local news publishers. The association’s chief executive, Owen Meredith, emphasizes the importance of maintaining this requirement to safeguard the interests of both newspapers and community institutions like pubs.
Recent challenges such as Covid lockdowns, increased business rates, and shifting consumer behaviors have substantially impacted pubs and licensed venues. Recognizing the vital role these establishments play in communities, the government has initiated steps to support them. Pubs serve as crucial community hubs where people gather for various social activities, underscoring their significance.
In parallel, local newspapers are also struggling to survive and fulfill their community role. The government’s consultation on licensing reform, while containing beneficial proposals for the hospitality industry, includes a contentious suggestion to scrap the mandatory publication of licensing notices in local papers. This move is deemed detrimental as it undermines the informative function of newspapers and weakens community cohesion.
Pubs and newspapers alike are adapting to modern demands, with pubs evolving into multifunctional venues and newspapers embracing digital platforms alongside traditional print. The Public Notice Portal, supported by Google, ensures wide dissemination of public notices, underscoring the evolving landscape of local journalism.
Removing licensing notices from local newspapers not only affects publishers but also diminishes community engagement in crucial decisions. These public notices serve as a vital connection point between communities and their local news sources, fostering transparency and accountability in local governance processes.
Maintaining the requirement to publish public notices in print serves not only to support community journalism financially but also ensures accessibility for all members of society, including those who may not have digital capabilities. Research shows that local news media remains a primary source for accessing public notices, emphasizing its enduring relevance in community information dissemination.
The proposed removal of public notices from local papers is viewed as a significant threat to transparency and community engagement. Business Secretary Peter Kyle is urged to reconsider this proposal to preserve the public’s right to access vital information through trusted local news outlets.
