UK night time industry contributes £66 billion to the economy

Well, isn't this a turn up. The UK's night time economy is worth £66 billion according to a new report.

While clubs across the UK are shutting down (The Arches, Plastic People and Crucifix Lane), Forward Into The Night, produced by new organisation Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), shows that six per cent of the UK's gross domestic product is actually made by bars, restaurants, pubs and clubs.

Another key figure is the 1.3 million people the industry employs, with 2,000 jobs being given extra support when the night Tube opens in September, expected to bolster the economy by £300m.

It goes on to say how a "curb" of the night time industry would have no effect on the amount of violence and alcohol-related crime, saying "most alcohol is consumed in licensed venues" and crime rate is 38 per cent lower than it was in 2002 to 2003.

Chapters in the report include 'Fuelling Regeneration', 'Night Time Myths' and 'International Impact', while the NTIA has compiled a list of recommendations. Read it in full here.

You can also check out which clubs will be accessible on the night Tube here.

[ Via: the Telegraph]