‘Big swing’ in licensing board finances

SHETLAND’s licensing board has reported a year-end surplus, after recording a near £15,000 deficit in 2024/25.

The “big swing” has been put down to a greater requirement in 2024/25 to train Shetland Islands Council legal staff on licensing matters.

A meeting of the licensing board heard on Monday that there was a £24,941 financial surplus in 2025/26.

It took in just over £52,400 in licensing fees, with staff costs and overheads recorded as around £27,500.

The board, which is part of the council, is responsible for regulating the sale of alcohol to the public and certain gambling activities, by issuing alcohol licences and betting and gambling permits.

When required, decisions may be taken by councillors who sit on the licensing board.

The annual report said there were three premises licences granted in 2025/26 compared to none the previous year.

This brought the total number of premises licences in Shetland up to 142. These licences are required by venues to be able to sell alcohol.

There were less personal licences issued in 2025/26 – 17 compared to 30 the previous year – but the overall number in force remained largely static as some were revoked, expired or surrendered.

Personal licences are required for anyone working in a licensed establishment wishing to sell alcohol.