London Mayor Unveils Vision For A 24-Hour London

Sadiq Khan has disclosed plans to transform the city into a leading global nightlife hub.

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The Mayor of London has revealed his plan to create a city that's always open with his 24 hour London project.

The Mayor of London’s vision is the first of its kind for London and outlines 10 principles which will help to pave the way for the capital to become a trailblazing city at night, competing with the likes of Berlin, Tokyo and New York.

The plans include promoting nighttime culture and leisure, increasing opening hours, working closely with boroughs and police and ensuring the safety of nighttime workers.

Sadiq Khan said: “Today’s vision isn’t just about pubs and clubs – it’s about everything from museums and theatres opening later, being able to do your weekly shop after an evening shift, through to the safety of Londoners working and travelling at night and residents being able to get a good night’s sleep.

“We must create a life at night that works for everyone, showing the world that London is open for business, open for people and ideas, and open 24 hours a day.”

The appointment of Night Czar Amy Lamé sees London as the largest city in the world to designate a night czar. Following the successes of cities such as Berlin and Amsterdam, London now has a huge opportunity to become the number one global destination for 24-hour culture and entertainment.

Although the proposal offers many promising aspects, some challenges - like rising rent prices which have forced out several venues - still need to be addressed. “Rising rents are pricing out small businesses and hastening the conversion of pubs, clubs, venues and workspaces into luxury flats and other uses. There are frictions between residential and night time uses. Some of our unique cultural assets, such as the Ministry of Sound nightclub or the George Tavern in Stepney, have faced costly battles to stay in business.”

Challenges aside, it is promising and encouraging to know that our Mayor recognises the importance of London's nightlife culture and is committing energy to keeping our clubs safe.

Read the full report here.