The powers could mean more alfresco dining and later opening hours for pubs, clubs and restaurants in the capital, according to the Government, with plans to roll out the scheme to other mayors across England if it proves successful.
“Our pubs, restaurants, and live music venues are the beating heart of our cultural life, so it is vital they are given every chance to survive and thrive,” says Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister.
“That’s why it’s time to give the Mayor of London new powers to back the capital’s pubs and clubs, as part of our plan to give mayors the tools they need to drive growth.
“Too often, we have seen the complaints of a vocal minority of objectors promoted over the need for our country to grow – we are determined to change this.”
As part of the package of measures, the Government has also announced a new working group to look at how to reduce barriers in the licensing system.
Members include Nick Mackenzie, CEO of Greene King and chair of the British Beer and Pub Association; Kate Nicholls, national chair of the Institute of Licensing and CEO of UKHospitality; and Michael Kill, CEO of Night Time Industries Association.
The group will report in six weeks, with solutions to improve the licensing system, slash red tape and boost hospitality’s competitiveness.
“Cutting red tape and improving hospitality’s competitiveness is much needed to unlock our sector’s potential to drive socially productive growth and create jobs,” says Nicholls.
“A new and improved licensing system that is fit for the 21st century will be a huge boost to the nation’s pubs, bars, restaurants and hotels, and I’m delighted that this expert group will be leading the review and finding solutions that can unlock the high street’s potential.
“We have long-maintained that there are aspects of the licensing system that are too restrictive and aren’t flexible enough to adapt to an ever-changing sector.
“Too often, we hear from businesses that are encountering barriers to growth at a local authority level. Not only do structural elements of the system need to change, but so do approaches to licensing in particularly restrictive areas.”