New mayoral licensing powers “too broad”, London Councils warn

The network of London boroughs has also complained that the scheme imposes new administrative duties, operational requirements, and resource burdens on local authorities at a time when they are struggling with their finances.

The new powers, which came into force on Tuesday, allow the Mayor to create a new London-wide Strategic Licensing Policy, make formal representations on licensing decisions, be consulted when boroughs revise their licensing policies, and call-in strategically important decisions.

London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, said the reforms marked a “new beginning” for London’s nightlife economy and allow him to implement a “more strategic and consistent approach to licensing” across the capital.

However, in a statement criticising the change, Mayor Jason Perry, London Councils’ Executive Member for Planning, Infrastructure and Regeneration, raised concerns about the definition of “strategic”.

He said: “We are concerned the new strategic licensing powers use a definition of ‘strategic importance’ that is too broad. In fact, it is not strategic nor targeted.

“Boroughs also want to see transparency from the Mayor and GLA about the process for selecting applications to call in using this wide-ranging definition. This is crucial if we are to provide certainty for local residents and businesses."

London Councils has also criticised the changes for introducing new administrative and financial burdens for local authorities, including requirements to provide information on licensing applications within set timeframes for the GLA.

A new duty to publicise applications of potential strategic importance, and the risks of call-ins and overturned decisions will also put more pressure on London boroughs, the network said.

Mayor Perry said: "The introduction of the new powers will bring additional burdens to boroughs at a time when resources are already stretched. We look forward to working with the government and the GLA to calculate new burdens funding to make sure boroughs’ costs are covered.

“Boroughs also want to work alongside the government and GLA on evaluating and reviewing this pilot within its first two years of operation."

Hailing the changes on Tuesday, Sadiq Khan, said: “As Mayor I have always tried to be pro-jobs and pro-business and I’m determined to build on this. These new licensing powers create an opportunity to further champion London's amazing venues, particularly our hospitality industry.

“From today, thanks to the Government, I can step in and make decisions on licensing applications of particular importance for our economy, reputation and nightlife – allowing me to back the venues that make our high streets and communities thrive and help cement our city’s nightlife reputation - while keeping people safe and listening to communities."

He added: “I’m looking forward to setting a new direction for our capital’s life at night, creating a more strategic and consistent approach to licensing.

“It will bolster our capital’s reputation as a global nightlife destination and ensure that our hospitality, culture and nightlife can thrive, as we build a better London for everyone.”

Adam Carey