As you might have seen, the Government has announced the formation of a new working group to explore how to reduce barriers within the licensing system in England.
The working group formed of hospitality experts include UKHospitality CEO Kate Nicholls, British Beer & Pub Association chair Nick Mackenzie and Night Time Industries Association CEO Michael Kill.
Action includes moves to improve the application of licensing laws and strengthen businesses’ competitiveness, giving diners, pub and partygoers more time and more choice to enjoy the country’s hospitality.
In a bid to revitalise the capital’s nightlife, one of the key proposals under consideration is to grant the Mayor of London new powers to review and potentially overturn licensing applications that have been blocked by local councils. The aim is to enable more alfresco dining and extended late-night trading for venues across the city.
This initiative comes amid growing concern over the steady decline of London’s once-vibrant nighttime economy. The proposed changes seek to reverse this trend and re-establish London as a leading global destination for nightlife.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This significant decision would allow us to do more to support the capital’s pubs, clubs, music venues and other parts of the visit and tourist scene. It would boost tourism, stimulate growth and deliver new jobs both in London and across the country.”
Currently, decisions regarding opening hours for pubs, bars and clubs fall under the remit of local authorities, as outlined in the Licensing Act 2003. Applications are assessed against the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.
However, the Act has received criticism stating that it is a decentralised approach that has created inconsistencies across boroughs and made it harder for businesses to operate beyond standard hours – ultimately curbing the potential of the late-night economy.
If implemented, the mayor’s new powers would not only reshape the licensing landscape in London but could also serve as a blueprint for similar powers to be extended to mayors in other cities across England. These new responsibilities would involve close collaboration with local police and community safety bodies, ensuring that public protection remains central to any licensing reform.
For further information, please feel free to contact any of our licensing solicitors on 0115 953 8500
