[ad_1]
The London councils that block pubs and restaurants that later open can see their decisions being overturned by the mayor, which gets new powers by the government.
As part of the plans’ plans to boost the hospitality industry, Sir Sadiq Khan will be given the power to call ‘licensing decisions for the nightlife hotspots in the capital’.
It can mean the opening times and more alfresco places later Londonand the pilot scheme can eventually be expanded to other parts of the country, such as the West Midlands or Bigger Manchester.
The latest politics: How will the UK respond to Trump’s rates?
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the move would mean that hospitality companies ‘have the conditions to grow’ and not ‘tied up by unnecessarily troublesome red tape’.
“We have heard the concern about the industry, and we work with businesses to understand what changes should be made, because a bleeding night economy is good for local economies, good for growth and good to get more money in people’s pockets,” she added.
Deputy Premier Angela Rayner said: “We have seen too often that the complaints of a vocal minority of objectors promoted about the need of our country are growing – we are determined to change it.”
Councils want more powers, no less
The decision comes at a time that the UK’s hospitality industry is under severe pressure amid rising wage costs, national insurance contributions and business rates.
UK Hospitality in the operating trade said the combination of rising costs would mean a £ 3.4bn for the sector, and urged the government to do more.
Sir Sadiq argued that allowing him to exceed the local councils, “allowing us to do more to support the bars, clubs and music rooms of the capital”.
He added: “This is more proof that we now have a government that wants to work with the capital and recognize the role we can play in the delivery of economic prosperity and Londoners, because we build a better London for everyone.”
But this decision to grant more powers to the mayor also comes at a time when the 32 districts of London are asking for a bigger say for the management of the capital, and on Thursday asking for a new power arrangement with the mayor, giving them a formal say on the strategic direction of the capital.
Read more:
‘They can’t even run’: Starmer attacks reform uk on
Trump has acted for his country, I will act in Britain’s interests, Premier says
Rates will have an impact for too long – but how will the UK respond?
A Westminster City Council spokesman said: “Westminster has the most pubs and clubs from any local authority, so we already have extensive expertise to support matters to thrive while balancing the view of locals and police.
“We provide the vast majority of licensing applications, which are only denied where police are raised by police or significant disruption is likely.
‘We need to see the suggestions in more detail before commenting further.
“Local authorities and licensing professional persons must be represented on any working group.”
[ad_2]
Source link