London Nightlife
Mayor of London appoints new chair of Night Time Commission
The Mayor of London announced yesterday (Thursday 15 December) that, from Monday 9 January 2017, Kolvin will work closely with the newly-appointed Night Czar Amy Lamé in a bid to transform the capital into a 24-hour city.
Kolvin will overlook and bring together stakeholders, including local authorities, Metropolitan Police and club owners, to work together.
The move comes under the Mayor’s “commitment” to safeguard the future of clubs and live music venues.
‘Cannot be complacent’
Khan said: “Our city’s flourishing nightlife attracts millions of visitors from the UK and abroad every year. However, with the loss of so many clubs and venues from around the capital, we cannot afford to be complacent.
He added: “Working alongside my newly-appointed Night Czar Amy Lamé, Philip’s expert knowledge in the field of licensing, regulation and policy will be crucial in ensuring that our live music venues and nightclubs are protected from closure and that they are recognised as a distinctive part of our cultural heritage.”
Kolvin said: “As the capital grows, we must plan for a growing night-time economy for the whole of Greater London — something that can only be achieved through proper partnerships with stakeholders, strategic planning, and investment in infrastructure.
“It’s vital we ensure that everyone benefits from a thriving night-time economy — from those who want a great night out, to those who want a good night’s sleep.”
‘Passionate advocate’
Meanwhile, Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “The Mayor has made some very positive moves since taking office and we are pleased to see him taking the issue of London’s night-time economy seriously.
“It is vitally important that we have an effective Night Time Commission to compliment to work of the Night Czar and we would like to congratulate Philip on his appointment.
“Philip has always been a passionate advocate for licensed hospitality and the UK’s night-time economy.
“He has extensive experience working with all stakeholders including hospitality businesses, local authorities and the police. Philip has the nous and the credibility to lead the Commission and his experience will be crucial to the success of the Mayor’s plans for London.”
Boosting late-night businesses
Kolvin has played an important role in the reopening of the famous Fabric nightclub, with new stringent conditions to protect the safety of clubbers.
Since 2008 the capital has lost 50% of its nightclubs and 40% of its live-music venues, the Night Time Commission was established to review the capital’s night-time economy.
The introduction of the Night Tube, for example, aimed to make night-time businesses more accessible to the public.
