COVID-19 was catastrophic for London’s nightlife, shutting down
the sector for months on end in efforts to stop the spread of the
virus. Venues have since reopened and welcomed back customers,
but for many, challenges remain.
The London Assembly Economy Committee report
Night Vision: Rebuilding London’s Night-Time Economy,
published today, suggests that improving
perceptions and appeal of jobs such as door supervisors will help
to support London’s night-time economy in the aftermath of the
crisis.
An investigation by the Committee has identified concerns among
London’s night-time economy businesses, including a shortage of
staff in parts of the workforce, a lack of consumer confidence,
and reduced bookings for future months.
And with Christmas fast approaching, venues have reported booking
cancellations and nervousness among customers during the crucial
festive period.
The report makes 12 recommendations, including:
- The Mayor should work alongside employers and skills
providers to improve perceptions and working conditions of jobs
such as door supervisors and other roles in hospitality, in order
to encourage more people to enter the sector.
- The Mayor and Transport for London (TfL) should set out an
appropriate timetable to ensure that the rest of the night tube
returns as soon as is feasibly possible.
- The Mayor and Central Government should do more to celebrate
and promote London’s night-time economy.
- The Mayor should continue to set out what action he is taking
to improve safety for all groups in the context of the night-time
economy.
- The Mayor should work with local authorities to investigate
the feasibility of meanwhile use of vacant premises for
night-time businesses and events.
Chairman of the Economy Committee, AM, said:
“It has been remarkable to witness how quickly London’s
night-time economy has bounced back from the devastating impact
of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“London’s nightlife is one of the most vibrant in the world
and we all need to wake up to the enormous social and economic
contribution it makes to our city and country.
“Sadly, we know that some businesses were not able to weather
the storm. But we must recognise and praise the resilience of
those working in the sector to ensure that we had a night-time
economy to go back to after doors reopened.
“Following months of uncertainty and upheaval, we need to
rebuild consumer confidence, address skills and labour shortages,
and drive footfall to venues. It’s crucial that the Mayor does
everything he can to support London’s night-time economy and that
it receives the continuous help it needs, to keep the lights
on.”
Notes for editors:
- The embargoed report is attached.
-
AM, Chairman of the Economy
Committee, is available for interview.
