Increase of Closure Notices Powers

Changes to the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 arising from the Crime and Policing Act 2026 will take effect on  26th October 2026 increasing powers relating to Closure Notices.

The Home Office has also been revised in line with these changes, a copy of the new guidance, which will come into effect of 26th October can be found here.

A closure notice may be issued if the relevant officer if satisfied on reasonable grounds:

(a) that the use of particular premises has resulted, or (if the notice is not issued) is likely soon to result, in nuisance to members of the public, or
(b) that there has been, or (if the notice is not issued) is likely soon to be, disorder near those premises associated with the use of those premises,

and that the notice is necessary to prevent the nuisance or disorder from continuing, recurring or occurring.

The changes to the legislation, which may impact hospitality venues, are in respect of the time such Notices can last.

Prior to the changes, Closure Notices, which could be issued under the Authority of a Police Inspector would expire after 48 hours. The changes to the Legislation will allow this period to be extended by a further 24 hours to 72 hours in total if authorised by a Superintendent.

If , upon application for a Closure Order, the Court does not make a Closure Order it may nevertheless order that the Closure Notice continues in force for a specified further period of not more than 72 hours [increased from 48 hours], if again satisfied:

(a) that the use of particular premises has resulted, or (if the notice is not continued) is likely soon to result, in nuisance to members of the public, or
(b) that there has been, or (if the notice is not continued) is likely soon to be, disorder near those premises associated with the use of those premises,

and that the continuation of the notice is necessary to prevent the nuisance or disorder from continuing, recurring or occurring.