Sadiq Khan proposes "London-wide" nightlife licensing overhaul

Sadiq Khan has unveiled plans for a "London-wide" licensing overhaul to support nightlife businesses in the capital.

A public consultation has now been launched, which will consider whether the Mayor of London should be given powers to "call in" on licensing decisions of strategic importance as part of government proposals, reducing "inconsistencies" across the city's 33 boroughs.

Announced today (February 12), Khan's Strategic Licensing Policy would require local licensing bodies to take into consideration a series of different factors when making decisions on venues, and "recognise the benefits of offering a range of well-managed activities after dark."

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The policy asks for licenses to be "determined on merit", for local councils to "support economic growth, socialising and culture," and "be transparent and work closely with businesses to address issues".

“We want to continue improving London's nightlife by encouraging later opening hours, supporting our nightlife industries and revitalising our high streets. Too often we’ve heard from pubs, clubs, music venues, restaurants and others that have struggled to get the licenses they need to succeed," Sadiq Khan said in a statement.

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"That's why I’m working to create a system that will end the ‘licensing postcode lottery’ and works for businesses, boroughs and Londoners alike," he continues. "By making it easier to extend opening hours and expand what’s on offer at night for Londoners and visitors, we can continue to grow our capital’s nightlife offer and build a better London for everyone.”

For more information on the Mayor of London's Strategic Licensing Policy proposals, and to have your say, click here.

Megan Townsend is Mixmag's Deputy Editor, follow her on X