Photo Credit: Huy Phan
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has criticised Westminster City Council for pushing ahead with controversial licensing restrictions in Soho and the West End, accusing the authority of “breathtaking arrogance” after an overwhelming majority of respondents opposed the proposals.
Westminster Council will keep its West End Cumulative Impact Zone, meaning new pubs, bars, fast-food, and entertainment venues will generally be refused without exceptional circumstances to mitigate crime and public nuisance. This follows a consultation where 81% of respondents opposed the policy and 84% raised business concerns.
The dispute originally focused on Westminster’s proposed licensing policy on “vertical drinking” (standing while drinking), which aimed to shift venues toward seated service and food. Pub operators and nightlife campaigners argued this would alter Soho’s traditional character. Westminster clarified it does not intend an outright ban on standing drinking. Deputy leader Tim Barnes stated the goal is managing overcrowding, not banning standing drinks, while pointing to reduced police resources and inadequate late-night transport as contributing issues.
Westminster’s position underscores a debate over whether London is growing tougher for nightlife. The council claims dense late-night venues drive antisocial behaviour, while critics say limits damage famous districts like Soho. The Guardian noted the Cumulative Impact Zone stops new bars without exceptional grounds.
