Westminster Council is facing criticism for draft proposals that would discourage patrons from standing in pubs and bars in London's Soho and West End districts. The council aims to promote table service and increase seating, in part to address concerns about excessive drunkenness and anti-social behavior.
Lesley Lewis, owner of Soho's French House pub, expressed strong opposition to the potential changes, stating that they could lead to business closures and job losses. "It will really finish us off," Lewis said. "We rely on those people standing up with the rents and the rates put upon us." She believes that customers prefer a more dynamic atmosphere where they can meet others and move around, suggesting that such restrictions could drive patrons to other areas like Camden Town.
The council's existing policy already presumes refusal for new pubs, bars, and entertainment venues in the West End Cumulative Impact Zone, except in limited circumstances. The draft policy aims to "promote a more balanced range of venues that are less dominated by alcohol–led activities."
Conservative councillor Timothy Barnes defended the proposals, stating on X that the guidance is intended to encourage venues to manage customer flow and prevent overcrowding on pavements or excessive drinking that disturbs passersby. He noted that Westminster Council is a large planning authority with thousands of licensed venues and that few applications are rejected. Barnes added that the council is eager to support thriving venues and is collaborating with the Mayor of London on licensing matters, having also launched a campaign to promote nights out in Soho.
However, the Soho Business Alliance views the proposals as an attempt to reduce venue capacities and alter the fundamental nature of Soho. They argue that standing while drinking has been a long-standing practice without causing significant crime or issues, and that the policy contradicts the Mayor of London's London Plan.
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan is expected to gain new powers allowing him to "call–in and amend certain decisions," which his spokesman indicated would be important in light of these proposals. The spokesman criticized the draft policy as "restrictive and anti–growth" and stated that the Mayor will use his new powers to protect London's nightlife and hospitality sectors, which are currently facing challenges.
This is not the first time Westminster Council has drawn criticism for its approach to nightlife. Earlier this year, a plan called 'Westminster After Dark' suggested encouraging venues to host 'quiet nights' with reduced noise levels and calm zones, and promoting non-alcohol-led activities. These suggestions also met with public backlash, with some questioning if the council was trying to end London's nightlife.
The article also touches on broader issues contributing to the perceived decline of West London's nightlife, including organized crime and drug abuse, citing incidents at high-profile venues and theft from patrons.