Ramsey MHK Dr Alex Allinson has voiced his support for the Liquor Licensing and Public Entertainment Bill, saying it would potentially allow the town’s four empty pubs to be regenerated.

Dr Allinson said that this was because the Bill would stop the practice of placing such pubs under a covenant which states that once sold, the new owner cannot apply for a new licence.

Ramsey’s disused pubs include the Britannia, the Central, the Stanley Hotel and the Saddle Hotel.

The government says the bill, for which a consultation now has been opened, represents the latest stage in a ’landmark’ overhaul of the current licensing regime, and follows a consultation on policy principles earlier this year.

It described current alcohol licensing arrangements are in need of reform, and aimed to support economic growth through a more ’streamlined’ licensing process.

Dr Allinson said: ’I believe this is a progressive and much needed Bill which will give more flexibility and opportunities for our hospitality sector just as it reopens following a long period of disruption.

He added that, believing the Ramsey pubs to be under the aforementioned covenant, that this was wrong and is ’blighting many towns on our island’.

He added: ’I believe some of the breweries and pub chains will object, but please make your voice heard on page 11 of this brief consultation’ - now available on the government website until April 29.

Home Affairs Minister Graham Cregeen said: ’This briefer and more enabling Bill aims to bring about legislation that can stand as practical, usable and futureproof’ and encouraged everyone who had an interest in licensing to respond to the consultation.