The council has received a steady stream of enquiries after publicly notifying a draft liquor licensing policy last month, Queenstown Lakes District Council chief executive Duncan Field said.

"The interest has been strong but we have received only 20 submissions to date. This is a really important issue that affects the community. I hope that people will take the time to give the draft some consideration and let their thoughts be known," Mr Field said.

The existing policy was ratified in November 2003 with the proviso that it be reviewed in two years time.

After extensive consultation with licensees, reporting agencies, the District Licensing Authority and councillors, the proposed draft policy was adopted for public consultation by the council at the end of September, 2006.

The policy contained guidelines on a number of matters including trading hours for taverns and restaurants, special licences, drinks promotions and criteria for applications.

The draft policy, was available at council offices and on the council website www.qldc.govt.nz

Submissions must be received at either a council office or CivicCorp office by 15 November, 2006.

ENDS

By: Sarah