Sadiq Khan has said he will use powers to protect the night-time economy after an amenity society vowed to oppose new all licensing applications in Soho.
Members of the Soho Society voted at its AGM last week to object to applications from both new bars and restaurants as well as those wishing to renew their licences in the area.
The society, founded in 1970 to ‘preserve the character’ of Soho, will also lodge objections to any business wishing to open beyond ‘core hours’, which are stated as finishing by 11pm.
However Mr Khan said the move would be ‘bad’ for London and indicated he would use new powers to overrule any opposition from the group.
The Mayor of London wrote: ‘The Soho Society’s decision to oppose all new and extended licence applications is the wrong one – bad for London.
‘Once in force, new licensing powers I’ve been granted by Government, coupled with our bold new proposals to support London’s hospitality and nightlife, will help us protect venues, extend London’s late-night offer and allow the capital’s nightlife to flourish.’
Under new devolved powers set to enter force later this year, the Mayor will be able to ‘call in’ licensing applications in areas critical to the night-time economy.
Recent years have seen tensions between residents and businesses, amid challenging trading conditions for pubs and restaurants and decreasing footfall according to reports.
Complaints from residents have often centred around noise disruption as well as litter and crime rates associated with late-night activity.
More than 500 food, drink and entertainment businesses are currently licensed in Soho.
A move to allow al-fresco dining during the pandemic was revoked following widespread local objection to continued outdoor seating.
Soho Society most recently opposed an application by the Groucho Club to serve up to 300 customers until 2.30am each night.
It objected to the proposals, saying the community was ‘consistently exposed to high levels of noise during both the day and night-time periods’ and that extending the hours of the club would add to the cumulative disruption in the area.
The venue on Dean Street has been the site of several incidents, including being forced to close temporarily in 2024 following an alleged rape.
WT has contacted Soho Society for comment.