Council appoints Licensing Standards Officer

With the introduction of the new Licensing (Scotland) Act, 2026, The Highland Council has appointed Ian Cox as Licensing Standards Officer for the Inverness, Badenoch, Strathspey and Nairn areas.

Licensing Standards Officers have a specific remit under the legislation which includes:

• advising and assisting Licence holders and prospective Licence holders on the new legislation and on Highland Licensing Board policy;
• supervising compliance with the condition on which licences are granted and ensuring premises are being run in accordance with operating plans submitted to the Board for approval;
• providing a mediation service where disputes have arisen between the Licence holder or any other person(s); and
• issuing notices to Licence holders requiring any breach of condition to be remedied.

Licensing Standards Officers can also apply to the Licensing Board for a review of any Licence where there has been a failure to comply with a notice; and they are afforded powers to enter and inspect premises to ensure compliance with legislation and Board policy.

The new Licensing Act is based on principles which are aimed at protecting and promoting public safety, improving health and protecting children from harm. The role of Licensing Standards Officer is seen as fundamental in ensuring the legislation delivers a social environment which is welcoming and safe for all.

A total of four Licensing Standards Officers are being appointed throughout the Highlands and will be based in Inverness, Dingwall, Fort William and Wick. Following mandatory training in early August they will commence the operational aspects of their duties where they will be a ready source of advice and guidance to both the public and licensing community.