Mayor of London could be given powers to overturn licensing decisions and ‘boost’ nightlife

The Mayor of London could be given new powers to overrule local councils that reject late licensing plans from venues, bars and clubs, raising fresh hopes for the future of the capital’s nightlife.

As the BBC reports, the new pilot scheme could allow Sadiq Khan to “call in” licensing applications in “areas deemed to be of strategic importance for the night-time economy”.

If granted, these new powers could allow the Mayor to “boost tourism, stimulate growth and deliver new jobs both in London and across the country”.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has said it will allow hospitality to grow, while deputy PM Angela Rayner added: “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.

“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.” If successful, the scheme could then be rolled out across the country.

A spokesperson for Westminster City Council said: “Westminster has the most pubs and clubs of any local authority, so we already have extensive expertise in supporting businesses to thrive while balancing the views of local people and the police.

“We grant the vast majority of licensing applications, which are only refused where safety concerns are raised by the police or significant disruption is likely.”

Last year, according to the Music Venue Trust, one grassroots music venue was lost every two weeks.

The Mayor also launched an independent new Nightlife Taskforce to help support capital’s life at night earlier this year.