Sadiq Khan criticises Soho nightlife objections as licensing row escalates in central London
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has criticised Soho campaigners who are opposing new nightlife venues, describing their stance as “silly” as tensions grow over how the area’s bar and club scene should be managed.
The dispute centres on a decision by the Soho Society to object to every new pub, bar. and restaurant licence in the district, including applications that seek to extend opening hours beyond Westminster Council’s 11pm core hours policy.
“Complaining about nightlife when you choose to live in Soho is like living in South Kensington and complaining about the museums,” the Mayor wrote on social media.
The Soho Society has argued that the area is already oversaturated with nightlife venues and has raised concerns about policing capacity and late-night disruption. The group’s position has triggered criticism from parts of the hospitality sector, with business owners warning that widespread objections to new licences could damage Soho’s long-standing identity as a major entertainment district.
The Mayor has repeatedly voiced frustration over what he sees as barriers to London’s night-time economy, linking the current debate to wider planning tensions in the capital, including long-running disputes over Oxford Street and local resistance to redevelopment proposals.
He has argued that London’s late-night transport network, including the Night Tube and night buses, is underused because venues are being restricted. Khan has also previously criticised local decision-making structures for slowing economic activity in central London.
According to industry research published by the Metropolitan Police, the trade in stolen mobile phones remains a significant issue in London’s wider crime landscape, although enforcement efforts and technological changes are beginning to affect how stolen devices are reused and resold.
Do you think Soho should restrict new nightlife venues, or open up more licences to support the night-time economy? Explore more coverage of London politics, nightlife and culture on EyeOnLondon.
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