Westminster Council proposes Soho pub rules to curb standing drinkers

Westminster Council has proposed new licensing rules to restrict standing drinkers in Soho pubs, part of a draft policy that tightens controls on late-night venues. The council insists the measures are not a ban but aim to balance safety with the area’s nightlife. The proposals include a Cumulative Impact Zone covering Soho, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and parts of Fitzrovia and Mayfair.

Council blames Met Police for nightlife barriers

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Deputy council leader Tim Barnes said the Metropolitan Police’s objections are the biggest obstacle to new venues opening in Soho. The Met has opposed recent licensing applications, including Wok and Fire in Haymarket, which sought to extend its hours until 1am. Police argued the venue could become a ‘destination point’ for crime. Another application by Amorino ice cream shop in Old Compton Street to stay open until 3am was also opposed.

Barnes told the *Evening Standard* the Met ‘pretty much complain about everything’. He said the force’s approach amounts to ‘victim blaming’, as it opposes licences rather than addressing crime. The council rejected police concerns over a 24-hour McDonald’s in Leicester Square earlier this month. Barnes added that the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, should provide more resources to the Met, including facial recognition technology.

The Met Police, they pretty much complain about everything. It is pretty hypocritical of the Mayor. The purpose of any restraint on licensing is not to stop people having fun. It’s to make people safe.

Tim Barnes, Deputy Leader, Westminster Council

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Cumulative Impact Zone to shape West End licensing

The draft policy introduces stricter rules for venues in the Cumulative Impact Zone. The council can refuse applications for bars, clubs, and restaurants if they risk increasing crime or public nuisance. Existing venues may face licensing reviews if residents complain about noise or disturbances. The policy prioritises venues offering table service, though it does not change rules for existing licences.

Westminster Council approves over 98% of nightlife applications but often scales back opening times. Barnes said the policy is not new, having existed in some form for a decade. He added that new venues, such as The Lady pub in Covent Garden, continue to open when they meet licensing objectives. The council is legally required to review its licensing policy every five years.

What happens next

The draft licensing policy is under consultation. Residents and businesses can submit responses before the council finalises the rules. The Met Police has not yet commented on the proposals. The Amorino ice cream shop’s application to extend its hours until 3am will be heard next Thursday, 29 August 2024.