Rural Angus hostelries that are key to the area’s tourism sector may be considered for a licensing relaxation under new guidelines.
Councillors have agreed premises in remote or rural locations can apply for permission to allow children and young people access, without having to be sitting down to a meal.
The move is one area of change incorporated in the policy statement, drawn up after an extensive consultation with the trade and a range of groups across the area.
Licensing boards are legally required to publish a policy statement setting out how they will consider and determine applications for licences.
The Angus board said the newly approved local policy seeks to prevent crime and disorder, secure public safety, prevent public nuisance, protect and improve public health and protect children from harm.
The question of overprovision of licensed premises, or of particular types of licensed premises within any particular area is also part of the policy.
Bodies consulted include the Angus Local Licensing Forum, NHS Tayside and Tayside Police.
Licensing board vice-convener Councillor John Whyte said, “It is extremely important that we get the policy right for businesses and residents to ensure that Angus remains a safe and enjoyable place to live and visit.
“I would particularly like to thank all those who responded to the consultation exercise and all those involved in shaping the policy.”
Another significant change outlined in the policy is that licensed premises will be permitted to apply to the board for permission to trade from 11am on Sundays.
The policy will be reviewed in November 2013.