Gloucestershire firearms grant applications to resume after BASC pressure

BASC has welcomed a significant step forward in firearms licensing procedures in Gloucestershire following our sustained pressure and engagement with the county’s new Chief Constable and the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Despite having announced they were not accepting any grant applications, and that existing applications would take a minimum of two years, Gloucestershire Constabulary has now confirmed that firearm and shotgun grant applications will be reopened on 2 December 2024.

This development is welcome news for firearms users across the county, who have faced delays and uncertainty in obtaining the certificates critical for their livelihoods, sports, and conservation work.

In response to concerns raised by BASC and our members in Gloucestershire, the constabulary has committed to:

• Recruiting additional staff: New administrators, intelligence personnel, and Firearms Licensing Officers are being hired to strengthen the department.
• Ensuring statutory compliance: The force acknowledges the importance of adhering to tight statutory oversight in processing applications.
• Prioritising occupational needs: Licences required for professional purposes will be given precedence during the phased reopening process.

The measures reflect BASC’s call for fair and efficient firearms licensing. The reopening of grant applications represents a tangible outcome of our efforts to safeguard the interests of firearms users while supporting the force in meeting its statutory responsibilities.

BASC’s head of firearms, Martin Parker, said: “This decision is a testament to BASC’s ongoing commitment to ensuring firearms licensing operates effectively and in the interests of our members. We’d like to thank all our members who wrote to their MPs, the Police and Crime Commissioner and Chief Constable – without their support this wouldn’t have happened. We would also like to thank Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP for meeting the Chief Constable to raise the issue.

“The delays and uncertainty in Gloucestershire were unacceptable, and we are proud to have played a leading role in driving the changes necessary to resolve this issue. We look forward to our meeting with the Assistant Chief Constable on 5 Dec, and we will continue to work closely with the constabulary to monitor progress and ensure the swift delivery of these improvements.”

For advice and guidance on firearms licensing, head to our dedicated advice hub here.