VENUES with a capacity of less than 200 people no longer need a licence for live music.

Designed to boost business by encouraging live music in pubs, clubs and bars, the Government has amended the Licensing Act 2003 by deregulating aspects of the performance of live music so that, in certain circumstances, it is no longer a licensable activity.

The change, which came into effect on October 1, is part of a move to free businesses from red tape.

UK Music, which represents the music industry, estimates that the Live Music Act could enable 13,000 more venues to start holding live music events.

Live unamplified music can also now be played in any location under the Act.

Musicians and business owners have welcomed the change, which will allow amplified live music to be played between 8am and 11pm before audiences of not more than 200 people on premises authorised to sell alcohol for consumption on the premises, and in workplaces not otherwise licensed (or licensed only for the provision of late night refreshment), but it has not proved popular with noise campaigners.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.