UK government could allow venues to open later in new plans to support nightlife

The UK government is launching a fast-track review to scrap “outdated” rules for pubs, bars, and live music venues through a new initiative, Cheers to Change.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is hoping to “cut the red tape” thought to hinder nightlife with constraining licensing rules and “pointless restrictions”, with plans to allow venues to stay open later, the BBC reports.

The review will begin with a “four-week blitz” asking for landlords and communities’ thoughts on local nightlife, with plans to use that evidence to help bolster local businesses.

“This review is about cutting red tape, boosting footfall, and making it easier for venues to put on the kind of events that bring people together,” Starmer says. “When our locals do well, our economy does too.”

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“The shake-up could mean more street food, more live music, and fewer hoops to jump through for venues trying to bring people together - all while keeping the public safe.”

Cheers to Change also acknowledges the difficulty nighttime institutions face in keeping the lights on with soaring overheads, noise complaints, and outdated advertising rules all having an impact.

Plans include creating more community events and “helping small businesses thrive” by bringing more cashflow through nightlife in the UK, though some have warned that these plans could lead to further antisocial behaviour (per the BBC).

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Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, has praised the initiative, but argues that these opportunities for reform are “long overdue”.

“The commitment to cutting outdated red tape that has long held back pubs, bars, and venues – while creating space for more live music, food, and community events – is a positive step forward,” he says.

“These reforms must form part of a broader effort to address business rates, cost inflation, and workforce challenges if we are to truly revitalise our high streets and night-time economy.”

Read more about Cheers to Change here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Associate Digital Editor, follow her on Twitter