Westminster Council revises licensing policy after business backlash
New guidance aims to clarify terms like 'vertical drinking' following widespread criticism.
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Westminster City Council has published a revised licensing policy, which seeks to offer clearer explanations for technical terms like 'vertical drinking'. This follows a period of significant debate and criticism regarding its earlier draft policy.
Draft policy sparked business concerns
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The council's draft policy, released last month, had suggested encouraging pubs and bars to increase the provision of seated areas in place of standing room. This proposal drew criticism from local businesses, the government, and the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan. Businesses in areas such as Soho expressed concern that the changes could negatively impact established trading practices, with the Soho Business Alliance stating that standing while drinking has not historically caused crime or issues in the area.
The government also voiced its opposition, stating that busy pubs are part of British life and support thousands of jobs. In response to the feedback, Westminster Council clarified that it had not intended to ban people from standing while drinking. The council licenses more than 4,000 pubs, clubs, bars, and restaurants across the city, including venues in Soho, Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, and Covent Garden. The current licensing policy, originally established in 2021, requires an update by 1 October.
Policing and transport funding requested
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In its latest guidance, published on Monday, the council highlighted that public safety and policing were the most frequently raised concerns during the consultation period. It noted a reduction in officer numbers and a halving of the Metropolitan Police's licensing team over the past year. Consequently, Westminster Council is now requesting that the Mayor of London reverse these policing reductions and provide funding for visible, dedicated policing in the West End during evening and overnight periods.
The council also advocates for extended night bus routes in central London and for Night Tube services to operate on Thursdays, citing difficulties for people travelling home. While Friday and Saturday trade has shown recovery towards pre-pandemic levels, other nights remain quieter, affecting venue viability. Council deputy leader Tim Barnes stated that a lack of investment in policing has led the Met to object to numerous licensing applications on public safety grounds. He added that the council would support the hospitality industry but requires the Mayor's office to fund essential services that contribute to London's 24-hour city status.
A spokesperson for the Mayor of London stated that officer numbers in the West End have doubled and that a new Command Cell in the area is enhancing police and partner collaboration for street safety. The council has committed to reviewing its licensing policy annually in June and establishing an expert advisory group.
Questions this report answers
+Why has Westminster Council revised its licensing policy?
The council has updated its policy to provide clearer explanations for technical terms like 'vertical drinking'. This follows criticism of its draft proposals, which had suggested encouraging more seated areas in pubs and bars, and faced opposition from businesses, the government, and the Mayor of London.
+What specific changes were proposed in the draft policy?
The draft policy suggested discouraging excessive drunkenness and encouraging more seating in licensed premises. It also proposed that new licence applicants aim for predominantly seated operations with waiter service, restricting customers from consuming alcohol while standing.
+What is Westminster Council asking the Mayor of London to do?
Westminster Council is requesting the Mayor of London to reverse reductions in police numbers and fund increased visible, dedicated policing in the West End. They also want extended night bus routes and Night Tube services on Thursdays to help people travel home.
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