Home secretary Theresa May has announced plans to overhaul licensing legislation that could see local authorities handed more powers to help crack down on alcohol-related disorder.

A number of measures will be put to consultation as part of a bid to reform the Licensing Act, including the introduction of a fee for late-night licences and a ban on the sale of below-cost alcohol. Other proposals include a limit on the number of Temporary Event Notices that can be applied for in a year and ensuring police and health concerns are considered when assessing license applications.

May said: "The benefits promised by the 24 hour drinking 'café culture' have failed to materialise and in its place we have seen an increase in the number of alcohol related incidents and drink-fuelled crime and disorder. "We know that the majority of pubs and bars are well run business but the government believes that the system needs to be rebalanced in favour of the local communities they serve with tougher action taken to crack down on the small number of premises who cause problems."

The consultation is due to run for six weeks.