The pilot comes as the government grants new strategic licensing powers to Sadiq Khan as part of a national first to boost the capital city’s nighttime economy.
Announced just yesterday (Monday 12th May) the first-of-its kind project is worth £300,000 and is now open to bolster London’s hospitality sector. The scheme is earmarked to slash the red tape on bureaucracy and extend opening hours for bars and restaurants as well as create more opportunities to dine outdoors.
Delivered in partnership with local authorities across London, the initiative will see councils apply for a share of the £300,000 pot which will be used to support restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs including live music and LGBTQ+ venues.
According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the move will also reduce the cost burden to venues by reducing or waiving fees.
The news comes after the latest statistics from City Hall found London’s hospitality, leisure and tourism generates more than £46billion every year and accounts for one in ten jobs in the capital city.
‘London is the greatest city in the world and as summer approaches and our city is set to welcome millions of tourists, I’m keen to put al fresco dining and later opening hours back on the menu,’ the Mayor of London said. ‘London’s world-class range of restaurants, cafes and bars is what makes our city special, but too often they have found themselves restricted through bureaucracy and rules constraining their growth.’
Meanwhile, Justine Simons OBE, deputy mayor for culture and the creative industries added: ‘London is beautiful in the summer and there are some incredible spots to enjoy a meal outside.
‘Investing in al fresco dining and extended opening hours is not just about business recovery, it’s about reimagining our public spaces as vibrant inclusive destinations that support local economies, bring communities together and breathe new life into London’s streets.’
Arguably, this announcement couldn’t have come at a better time. Research from the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) shows that between March 2020 and December 2023, a total of 3,011 night economy businesses closed in London and its surrounding borough – the steepest fall of any English region.
‘This is a vital and timely move by the mayor that signals loud and clear: London is open for business and ready to thrive this summer,’ Michael Kill, CEO of NTIA said. ‘As the days get longer and temperatures rise, the ability for venues to trade outdoors and extend their hours isn’t a luxury, it’s essential.
‘This funding offers a real opportunity to cut through bureaucracy, boost footfall, and give hospitality and nightlife the platform they need to flourish.’
Photo by Alexander London via UnSplash
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