Developing the first actions for the Foundation Phase Implementation Plan

Developing the First Actions for the Foundation Phase Implementation Plan (2025 – 2030) MARCH 2025

Implementing Westminster After Dark: A Phased Approach As we consult on Westminster City Council’s first-ever evening and night-time strategy, Westminster After Dark 2025 – 2040, we are developing the first of three five-year implementation plans to ensure the strategy’s effective delivery. These plans will serve as a roadmap for action, providing a structured framework for evaluating progress, refining our approach, and adapting to the evolving needs of Westminster’s evening and night-time economy. Each plan will be shaped by emerging trends, stakeholder feedback, and lessons learned from previous efforts, ensuring that our approach remains responsive and forwardthinking.

The strategy will progress through three distinct phases: • Foundation Phase (2025-2030): Laying the groundwork by establishing core frameworks, building strong partnerships, and launching pilot programmes that test innovative solutions.

• Expansion Phase (2030-2035): Scaling up successful initiatives, embedding best practices across Westminster, and strengthening coordination among key stakeholders.

• Maturity Phase (2035-2040): Ensuring long-term sustainability by deepening cultural engagement, enhancing economic resilience, and embedding a lasting positive impact on Westminster’s evening and night-time landscape.

We have already begun exploring a series of potential actions for the first phase of our implementation plan and are keen to share these ideas with you. These actions demonstrate our commitment to delivering tangible change and shaping an inclusive, dynamic, and wellmanaged evening and night-time environment. We invite you to contribute your thoughts, share your experiences, and suggest additional actions that could help us achieve our vision for Westminster After Dark.

Given the strong and consistent feedback received from stakeholders throughout the engagement process, we have placed an initial focus on the Safe and Secure pillar of our strategy. Residents, businesses, workers, and visitors alike have emphasised concerns around crime, anti-social behaviour, and noise disturbances, reinforcing the need for targeted interventions to foster a welcoming and secure evening and night-time experience.

In response, we have carefully identified priority actions aimed at tackling these challenges head-on. Our initial proposed actions have been focused on crime prevention, enhanced public space management, noise mitigation, strengthened enforcement responses, and the power of partnership working to drive meaningful change. However, our focus and commitment extend beyond the Safe and Secure pillar. As we continue develop our implementation plan, we will develop a comprehensive set of actions to support all pillars of the strategy, ensuring a balanced approach that also delivers across accessible and positive places, communities and culture, economic development and environmental sustainability and biodiversity.

By laying a strong foundation through our first five-year implementation plan, we aim to instil confidence in Westminster’s evening and night-time environment and drive forward the changes necessary to deliver our vision for Westminster After Dark through our new strategy.

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Safe and Secure Objective SS1

Foster a Collaborative and Responsible Evening and Night-Time Environment Across Westminster We will work with venues, the police, and key stakeholders to establish high standards of crime prevention, safety, welfare, and community respect. This approach will nurture a culture of collaboration, support patron welfare, protect residents, and strengthen Westminster’s reputation as a leading example of a secure, sustainable night-time environment. It will support and build upon the Safer Westminster Partnership strategy (2024-27), extending its focus into the evening and night-time environment.

SS1.1

Strengthening Night-Time Safety Partnerships: We will collaborate with the chairs of local Pub, Theatre, and Club Watch groups to facilitate a more unified approach to common issues across sectors relating to evening and night-time safety. By bringing the Chairs of these groups together with key partners, we will create opportunities for alignment on key safety priorities and interventions, encouraging broader participation across all evening and night-time business sectors.

SS1.2

Exploring the Potential for a Westminster After Dark Business Charter We will explore with businesses and landowners the feasibility of developing a Westminster After Dark Business Charter to promote best practices across the evening and night-time economy: Created in collaboration with businesses, stakeholders, and partners, the charter could recognise existing training, accreditation, and responsible practices (with a particular focus on engaging SMEs). Covering all businesses operating after dark, it would encourage high standards in safety, inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and responsible operations.

SS1.3

Promoting Access to Crime Prevention and Welfare Training for Night-Time Businesses: To support a safer and more responsible evening and night-time environment across Westminster, we will signpost businesses to existing crime prevention and welfare training, resources, and support programmes. Working with the police and key stakeholders, we will ensure businesses are aware of relevant training opportunities that equip staff with practical skills to manage intoxicated patrons, respond to emergencies, and enhance venue safety.

SS1.4

Review and Update the Council’s Inspection Regime: We will collaborate with venues, the police, and key stakeholders to prioritise high-risk areas and embed practices that reduce crime and disorder, unacceptable noise disturbances, support patron welfare, and protecting residents. The updated regime will evolve with Westminster’s changing needs, reinforcing the Safer Westminster Partnership strategy (2024–27) and extending its principles into the evening and nighttime environment.

SS1.5

Reprioritising Licensing Enforcement for High-Risk Evening and Night-Time Licensed Venues:

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For the next two years, existing staffing will be reprioritised to focus on high-risk licensed evening and night-time venues, ensuring proactive engagement with operators to support compliance with licensing conditions. This dedicated approach will include regular inspections and targeted interventions to address key issues such as overcrowding, noise disturbances, women’s safety and crime.

Objective SS2

Enhancing Women's Safety and Addressing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in Westminster’s Evening and Night-Time Environment We will create a safer, more inclusive evening and night-time environment that addresses women’s specific safety concerns, combats violence against women and girls (VAWG), and builds a supportive infrastructure where women feel confident navigating Westminster’s vibrant night-time environment.

SS2.1

Licensing Requirements for VAWG Risk Management: In areas or operations with heightened risks to women’s safety, all applications for new licenses or variations of existing licenses will be required to complete a comprehensive VAWG-focused risk assessment.

This assessment must address specific risks and establish clear protocols for identifying, preventing, and responding to predatory behaviours and harassment. Venues will also be required to display and actively enforce a zero-tolerance policy on VAWG, document all incidents, and report serious cases to the police.

SS2.2

Enhance Evening and Night-Time Venue Safety for Women Through Design Guidance: We will work with key stakeholders and partners to develop tailored guidance for evening and night-time businesses, as well as those involved in venue design and delivery, including architects and designers. This guidance will outline best practices and key considerations for designing safer premises, both internally and externally, to reduce risks to women and enhance overall safety. It will include measures such as clearly marked exits, lighting, well-monitored areas, and a visible security presence, particularly in high-traffic or secluded spaces. By embedding these principles into venue design, this guidance will support efforts to improve women's safety and reduce the risk of violence against women and girls (VAWG).

SS2.3

Continued Operation and Development of the Night Stars Volunteer Scheme: We will work with businesses and partners to deliver the Night Stars scheme to maintain a visible presence in Central Westminster on Friday and Saturday nights, supporting crime prevention and enhancing safety for visitors, residents, and workers. Efforts will be made to sustain and develop the initiative by working with businesses and stakeholders to secure the necessary financial contributions.

SS2.4

Exploring Funding Options to Strengthen and Expand the “It’s Her City Too” Campaign: We will explore funding options to strengthen and expand the “It’s Her City Too” campaign, potentially through mechanisms such as the Late Night Levy or external grant funding. In collaboration with key partners and

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businesses, this could support efforts to continue to support a safer and more welcoming evening and night-time environment for women in Westminster. An expanded campaign could focus on increasing men’s awareness of predatory, harmful, or criminal behaviours towards women, reinforcing a zero-tolerance approach, and promoting interventions such as bystander intervention and improved awareness among evening and night-time economy venue staff.

SS2.5

Integrated Stakeholder Engagement on Women's Safety and VAWG Prevention: We will integrate discussions on women’s safety and VAWG prevention into existing stakeholder engagement structures, such as Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), sector forums, and safety partnerships.

Additionally, we will establish a time-limited advisory group composed of key stakeholders, including businesses, landowners, the police, and women’s organisations, to co-develop targeted actions that improve safety and support in Westminster’s evening and night-time environment in line with this objective.

SS2.6

Support Services for Women’s Safety in the Evening and Night-Time Economy: Strengthen services that protect women from Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) within the evening and night-time economy, ensuring their sustainability and effectiveness. Work to secure and enable grant funding for innovative, community-led initiatives that enhance women’s safety, provide targeted support for victims and survivors, and address risks in night-time settings. This includes promoting safe spaces, increasing access to specialist support services, and fostering a culture of prevention and awareness across businesses and venues.

Objective SS3

Developing a "Unified Licensing Policy Framework” for a Balanced Evening and Night-Time Environment We will establish a cohesive and adaptable " Unified Licensing Policy Framework" to integrate all licensing regimes into a streamlined, coordinated policy with a clear strategic vision and priorities. This unified approach will balance community and business needs, reflecting Westminster’s unique local character while fostering responsible growth and innovation in suitable locations. Tailored policy measures will support business opportunities while addressing local challenges, with safeguards in place to mitigate noise, crime, anti-social behaviour, and other impacts of evening and late-night activity. This will ensure businesses operate responsibly and in harmony with their surroundings.

SS3.1

Create a Comprehensive “Unified Licensing Policy Framework” to Balance Community Well-being and Foster Evening and Night-time Growth: We will create a unified Licensing Policy Framework, aligned with the Westminster After Dark vision, to provide clear, consistent, and areaspecific licensing policies across Westminster. This framework will: • Establish tailored licensing zones to reflect the unique needs of residential and commercial areas, balancing community well-being and economic vitality.

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•

Embed the Agent of Change principle to ensure new developments and establishments are responsible for managing noise and disturbance.

• We will implement the findings of our Cumulative Impact Assessment to ensure our policy reflects the cumulative impact of licensed premises on the Licensing Act 2003 objectives in specific areas of the city. Where the assessment identifies the highest levels of cumulative impact, we will apply more restrictive policy approaches to certain streets or clusters of streets to effectively manage pressures on the evening and night-time environment.

Additionally, we will use this framework to take a broader view of the cumulative impact of all licensed activities within an area.

• We will refine our approach to venues in specific areas seeking to authorise the retail sale of alcohol when it is ancillary to an activity or operation that contributes to the positive diversification of Westminster’s evening and night-time offer. Our focus will be on supporting responsible businesses that enhance the city's cultural and economic vibrancy while effectively managing potential impacts on residents and aligning with the vision and objectives of the Westminster After Dark strategy.

• We will enhance community engagement through structured feedback mechanisms, enabling residents and businesses to contribute insights for future responsive policy adjustments.

This cohesive approach will enable responsible evening and night-time activities while protecting residents’ quality of life and supporting business growth.

SS3.2

Supplementary Licensing Guidance for Businesses and Residents: We intend to develop “Supplementary Licensing Guidance” to provide businesses, residents, and stakeholders with practical information on industry best practices, detailed regulatory compliance steps, and guidance on addressing common operational challenges. This resource will support the implementation of the Licensing Policy Framework policies, helping operators achieve compliance, foster sustainable practices, and minimise community impact, promoting a balanced and collaborative evening and night-time offer.

SS3.3

A Public Framework for Licensing Reviews and Enforcement: We will publish a framework outlining how we will use our full range of enforcement powers, including licence reviews and revocations, to address operators who cause disturbances or fail to uphold licensing objectives. This framework will set out the conditions under which enforcement actions may be taken, ensuring a proportionate and effective response to issues such as public nuisance, crime, and anti-social behaviour. It will also detail how we will support residents in bringing licence reviews when necessary.

Objective SS4

Minimising Noise Impacts from Late-Night and Early Morning Economy and Related Activities We will seek to minimise noise impacts, within our powers, on residents in areas with significant late-night and early-morning activity by implementing proactive noise management strategies. This will involve close collaboration with night-time economy venues, transport providers, waste and cleansing services, and local community groups to design and deliver

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effective noise mitigation measures. Our goal is to foster a thriving and vibrant night-time economy in Central Westminster while protecting and enhancing residents' quality of life.

SS4.1

Best Practice Guidance on Noise Management and Mitigation for Evening and Night-Time Businesses: We will provide best practice guidance to evening and night-time businesses on effective noise management and mitigation measures. This will include operational controls, structural solutions such as soundproofing and noise-dampening technology, and strategies for managing outdoor areas to minimise disturbances. Businesses, particularly those in areas with higher residential density, will be encouraged to adopt proactive noise management plans and conduct regular assessments to ensure they operate responsibly while balancing the needs of residents and the wider evening and night-time environment.

SS4.2

Using Soho’s Monitoring Results to Inform Future Evening and Night-Time Policy and Strategy: Following the completion of the Soho noise, traffic, and air quality monitoring programme in September 2025, we will assess the findings in collaboration with key stakeholders. We will consider the findings of this study to inform future policy development, including the Licensing Policy Framework and the Council’s revised Noise Strategy.

Objective SS5

Active Measures to Reduce Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Westminster’s Evening and Night-Time Environment We will work with venues, the police, and key stakeholders to establish rigorous standards for safety, crime prevention, and community respect across Westminster’s evening and night-time environment, including on residential streets and in housing estates. Collectively we will drive proactive measures to reduce incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour, foster a collaborative approach to public safety, and implement evolving practices that prioritise effective response and deterrence.

SS5.1

Establish and Operate a New Dedicated Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Unit: We will invest in creating a new front-line team to tackle Antisocial Behaviour (ASB) bringing together officers with experience in rough sleeping and city management issues who will work alongside key partners including Business Improvement Districts and their security teams, Outreach partners, and the police. This team will aim to deliver ASB initiatives and projects, supporting interventions for rough sleeping, and assisting with the enforcement of street-based activities such as busking after dark.

SS5.2

Advocating for Effective Licensing Controls for Pedi-Cabs: We will actively collaborate with and lobby Transport for London as they develop a licensing regime for Pedi-Cabs across the city. Our aim is to ensure the introduction of robust licensing controls to address crime, minimise nuisance (particularly noise from sound systems), prevent obstruction, and uphold consumer protection. This approach will safeguard residents and visitors while supporting responsible Pedi-Cab operators to thrive.

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SS5.3

Implementation of Additional CCTV Cameras During the Evening and Night-Time: We will expand our CCTV network by installing 100 additional cameras, increasing the total to 200. This expansion will include 18 cameras in Soho and 11 in Leicester Square, specifically enhancing crime detection in the UK’s busiest evening and night-time economy areas. Strategically placed in locations with high incidences of crime, anti-social behaviour, and community impact concerns, these additional cameras will strengthen monitoring and improve public safety both during the day and after dark.

This initiative will align with the Council’s new CCTV Policy, supporting intelligence-led interventions and aiding in the identification and apprehension of offenders.

Objective SS6

Strengthening Safety and Reducing Anti-Social Behaviour After Dark in Residential Areas We will foster a safer and more secure evening and night-time environment in residential neighbourhoods and estates by working to reduce anti-social behaviour, drug-related incidents, burglaries, knife crime, and low-level violence through targeted enforcement, community engagement, and strategic environmental design enhancements.

SS6.1

Targeted Evening and Night-Time Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness: Continue to develop and carry out localised and focused anti-social behaviour awareness messaging, utilising signage and posters in public areas and local businesses to communicate expectations and reporting processes for anti-social behaviours such as illegal dumping of waste, littering, noise, and street drinking that are prevalent in the evening and night-time.

SS6.2

Empowering Communities to Suggest Public Space Improvements: We will establish an initiative that seeks to deter anti-social behaviour while fostering safer and more welcoming environments for residents in their neighbourhoods after dark. We will do this, by creating a simple and accessible process for communities to propose improvements to existing infrastructure, aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour in their local areas.

Suggestions may include removing barriers to sightlines, introducing landscaping in secluded spots, or optimising seating layouts. These proposals will be assessed for their potential impact and funded where possible through the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy.

Objective SS7

Developing Funding and Investment Sources to Tackle Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour We will secure and leverage new funding sources to strengthen enforcement and policing in high-crime areas, address anti-social behaviour, and improve crime detection and evidence collection during evening and night-time hours.

SS7.1

Exploring the Introduction of a Late-Night Levy to Enhance Safety and Support Night-Time Venues: The council will explore and consult on implementing a Late-Night Levy to create a dedicated funding stream for targeted initiatives aimed at reducing crime and disorder in areas where the levy is applied. This funding will support additional resources and active measures to improve public safety, enhance perceptions of security, and reduce the impact of

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crime on key public services. By fostering a safer night-time environment, this initiative will help residents and visitors feel more secure, boosting economic opportunities for night-time venues and supporting a thriving evening and night-time economy.

SS7.2

Proactively Securing External Funding for Evening and Night-Time Crime Prevention and Anti-Social Behaviour Initiatives: We will actively explore and bid for external grants and investment opportunities to support the delivery of evening and night-time crime prevention and anti-social behaviour measures across the city. This funding will be used to implement both short-term projects and longerterm initiatives aimed at fostering safer communities.

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Accessible and Positive Places Objective AP1

Enhancing Accessibility, Comfort, and Inclusivity in Westminster’s Evening and Night-Time Spaces We will cultivate an evening and night-time environment in Westminster that champions accessibility, safety, and comfort by addressing the diverse needs of residents, workers, and visitors. Our focus will be on enhancing physical, sensory, and mental health accessibility through key initiatives that aim to ensure Westminster’s evening and night-time spaces are welcoming, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone, whether exploring independently or with others.

AP1.1

Ensure Venue Accessibility and Inclusivity Standards: In partnership with disability and mental health charities, businesses, and key stakeholders, we will develop detailed accessibility guidance for venues to encourage features such as ensuring information on accessibility being easily available, widened entrances, step-free access, accessible bathrooms, and inclusive signage with clear wording, braille, and audio options. To incentivise participation, we will explore licensing policy adjustments for venues that score highly for accessibility and offer additional support to encourage widespread adoption of these standards.

AP1.2

Encourage Sensory Friendly or ‘Quiet’ Nights: We will encourage entertainment venues to host ‘sensory-friendly’ or ‘quiet-nights’ where music has lower volume, reduced flashing lights, and ‘calm zones’ (within minimal lighting) to make the environment more accessible for neurodivergent patrons. We will encourage museums and galleries to offer ‘quiet hours’ on certain evenings during the week. To incentivise participation, the council will use its policies to encourage and support these activities in licensed venues.

Objective AP5

Fostering Social, Cultural, and Financially Inclusive Community Evening and Night-Time Spaces We will create a welcoming, safe, cultural and community-oriented evening and night-time environment across Westminster that enhances social inclusion, supports local engagement, and prioritises the needs and preferences of the local community. This objective will focus on ensuring the development of diverse recreational and cultural activities, diversifying away from traditional night-life options that rely on the sale of alcohol, that reflect the needs of the communities in which they are situated, and that are socially, culturally, and financially inclusive for residents, families, and visitors alike.

AP5.1

Exploring Opportunities for Community-Led Evening Markets: As part of the Council’s Markets Programme and new Markets Policy, we will explore opportunities for the development of community-led evening markets that celebrate local vendors, artisans, and food providers.

Working with communities and market operators, we will assess the feasibility of possible pilot evening markets in suitable locations, ensuring they align with local needs and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive, and safe evening economy.

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Objective AP6

Maintain Clean and Sustainable Evening and Night-Time Spaces We will continue to work with our partners to deliver effective cleansing operations while implementing revised litter reduction and waste management strategies to ensure clean and inviting public spaces during the evening and night-time. Collaborating with businesses, residents, and visitors to promote responsible waste disposal, reduce littering, and support sustainable practices that uphold Westminster’s environmental quality.

AP6.1

Coordinated Review of Waste Collection Times and Licensing Hours: We will undertake a review of waste collection schedules alongside the Council’s licensing policy to identify where greater alignments can be made between collection times and night-time business operating hours.

This will help mitigate disruption to residents while ensuring that waste management supports business operations effectively, reducing street waste accumulation and improving the overall experience of Westminster’s evening and night-time economy.

Objective AP7

Enhance Night-Time Transport Accessibility We will advocate for enhanced and expanded public transport options during night-time hours to ensure safe and convenient movement across the city. This includes ensuring residential areas have greater transport access to and from evening and night-time economy hubs, supporting workers with affordable and efficient commuting options, and enabling visits to family and friends. By championing greater reliability, safety, and inclusivity in night-time transport services, we aim to make Westminster a more connected and accessible city for everyone.

AP7.1

Lobbying for Increased Night Bus Routes for Sustainable and Safe Travel: We will support the Sustainable Transport Strategy in lobbying TfL to reverse the trend of reducing bus provision throughout Westminsterwhich includes night buses on strategic routes. Not only will this provide more options for sustainable modes of travel, but a more reliable and affordable stream of night buses will enhance feelings of safety and freedom during the after dark hours.

AP7.2

Stakeholder-Led Advocacy for Night Tube Expansion: We will work with businesses, evening and night-time sector representatives, BIDs, worker representatives, and community groups to build a unified case for expanding TfL’s Night Tube (notably to include the Bakerloo line) and improving night-time transport connectivity. Through coordinated lobbying efforts, we will work with stakeholders to engage TfL and the Mayor, advocating for enhanced services that better connect residential areas with Westminster’s evening and night-time economy hubs. Our focus will be on demonstrating demand, improving affordability, and strengthening safety measures, ensuring that night-time workers, visitors, and residents have reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective transport options.

Objective AP8

Enhancing Digital Connectivity for a Thriving Evening and NightTime Environment We will enhance digital connectivity across Westminster’s evening and night-time environment by expanding and strengthening the city’s digital

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infrastructure to improve connectivity, enhance visitor experience, and support business innovation. This will be achieved by increasing access to seamless and secure Open Roaming Wi-Fi, encouraging businesses to participate and ensuring widespread availability, while also expanding telecoms network capacity in collaboration with telecom providers and local stakeholders. Additionally, we will work with businesses and venue operators so that they develop the tools and build the awareness needed to leverage enhanced digital connectivity, improving public engagement, accessibility, and safety.

AP8.1

Expand Connected-London Wi-Fi for Evening and Night-time Use: Encourage evening and night-time businesses within Westminster to sign up to the Connected-London Wi-Fi initiative, enabling seamless and secure Open Roaming Wi-Fi connectivity. This will enhance digital connectivity for visitors, workers, and residents improving their experience of the evening and night-time environment. Promote awareness and facilitate sign-ups through business forums, direct engagement and collaboration.

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Communities and Culture Objective CC3

Protecting and Celebrating LGBTQ+ Cultural Venues in Westminster We will prioritise the protection of Westminster’s LGBTQ+ venues, celebrating their cultural significance and ensuring they continue to be safe, inclusive spaces that enrich the city’s diversity. Where we have the authority, we will take action to support their long-term sustainability and recognising their role as vital.

CC3.1

Support the Establishment of a Westminster LGBTQ+ Evening and Night-Time Venues Forum: We will support LGBTQ+ evening and night-time businesses to establish a Westminster LGBTQ+ Venues Forum to bring together venue operators, promoters, community representatives, Council officers, and key stakeholders, to address the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ venues and explore and identify possible options and solutions. The forum will focus on issues such as rising operational costs, crime and nuisance, licensing pressures, safety concerns, and inclusivity, while celebrating the cultural and economic contributions these venues make to Westminster’s evening and night-time economy. This forum will develop a shared roadmap to protect, promote, and sustain LGBTQ+ venues, with outcomes integrated into the wider strategy.

CC3.2

Guidance and Signposting for the Safety and Accessibility of LGBTQ+ Night-Time Venues: We will work with LGBTQ+ venues, promoters, organisations, charities, and the police to provide guidance and signposting on best practices for enhancing safety and accessibility in the evening and night-time economy.

This will include raising awareness of available resources, sharing information on reporting mechanisms for hate crimes and discrimination, and highlighting initiatives that promote inclusive and welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ communities.

Objective CC4

Address Rough Sleeping and Homelessness in Westminster’s NightTime Environment Aligned with our Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy, we will prioritise support to reduce rough sleeping in Westminster’s evening and night-time environment by strengthening crisis response and prevention efforts and reinforcing targeted support for those experiencing homelessness.

CC4.1

Optimise Use of Existing Public Awareness Channels to Promote Rough Sleeping Resources After Dark: We will promote awareness of available support services for rough sleepers after dark. Using existing council communication channels such as newsletters, social media, posters and local publications we will share information on outreach team schedules, access to communal settings, and available health services. This approach will align with existing winter and heat plans and ensure effective public engagement. We will also explore collaboration with Bi-Borough to enhance service delivery and communication strategies.

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CC4.2

Raise Awareness of the ‘StreetLink’ App and Monitor Alternative Approaches for Rough Sleeping Referrals: We will raise awareness of the ‘StreetLink’ application as a tool for reporting rough sleepers. Given the limitations of StreetLink in urban areas like Westminster, we will explore alternative, more targeted intelligence-gathering methods to improve outcomes. This includes assessing whether elements of outreach might be brought in-house to enhance responsiveness and service delivery.

Objective CC5

Enabling an Inclusive and Balanced Evening and Night-Time Beyond Central Westminster We will expand accessible, family-friendly, and non-alcoholic evening activities to foster a vibrant, inclusive evening and night-time environment in Westminster. By supporting community-led events and diverse recreational options, this objective promotes a balanced evening economy that respects residents' needs while celebrating Westminster’s cultural identity.

CC5.1

Supporting Diverse Evening and Night-Time Activities in Underutilised Areas: We will explore opportunities to enable businesses and community groups to obtain relevant permissions for family-friendly, community-led, and nonalcohol-led activities (such as cafes) within existing core hours. This approach aims to activate high streets and underutilised areas, fostering a more inclusive and diverse evening and night-time offer where activity is currently limited. To support this, we will engage with residents, businesses, and stakeholders to gather their views and assess the feasibility of developing specific policy within the Council’s Licensing Policy Framework and City Plan, ensuring any proposals align with regulatory requirements and reflect stakeholder feedback.

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Economic Development and Opportunities Objective ED1

Enhancing Support and Recognition for Night-Workers in Westminster We acknowledge and support the vital contributions of night-workers in Westminster, especially our residents, by advocating for fair compensation, improved access to health and wellbeing services, and improved infrastructure after dark. We aim to promote fair wages, health services accessibility, and transport options that reflect the unique needs and costs faced by night-workers, ultimately aiming to elevate Westminster’s reputation as a city that values and supports its night-time workforce.

ED1.1

Providing Guidance and Resources to Support Night-Workers’ Health and Well-being: We will promote resources for night-workers and their employers, offering guidance on health and well-being strategies. This includes information on financial and childcare assistance, mental health and stress management support, and tools to promote overall well-being for those working in the evening and night-time economy.

Objective ED2

Harmonising Licensing and Planning to Foster Sustainable Growth in the Evening and Night-Time Economy While Safeguarding Our Community We will ensure that licensing and planning processes are closely aligned and mutually supportive, while recognising that licensing and planning decisions must be taken solely within their respective regulatory and policy frameworks. This approach positions both as key drivers of responsible growth and opportunity in Westminster’s evening and nighttime economy. It emphasises the importance of balancing the protection of residents with the development of a vibrant and inclusive night-time environment, offering a diverse cultural and social experience where alcohol is just one of many choices available.

ED2.1

Contributing To and Creating a WAD Data Hub to Inform Licensing and Planning Policies and Decision Making: We will collect and analyse data on the evening and night-time environment, including resident feedback, business performance, and safety metrics that can form part of a WAD Data Hub. We will then be able to use insights from that Hub to inform policy adjustments in licensing and planning and support decision making that support the evolving needs of the community, businesses, and the council’s shared vision for a sustainable evening and night-time economy.

Objective ED3

Empowering Residents with Skills and Opportunities in the Evening and Night-Time Hospitality and Creative Sectors We will create accessible pathways for residents to gain valuable skills and qualifications that support the hospitality and creative sectors in Westminster. By building strong partnerships with educational institutions and industry leaders, we aim to provide residents with practical training, career opportunities, and clear entry points into these thriving sectors.

ED3.1

Skills Mapping for Evening and Night-Time Workforce Requirement:

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Building on the skills mapping work already underway, we will continue to highlight the specific needs of the evening and night-time economy. This initiative will identify gaps and opportunities, enabling targeted interventions to align workforce development with evening and night-time employer demands and support residents in accessing sustainable employment opportunities.

Objective ED4

Fostering Economic Development and Innovation through Collaborative Management of the Evening and Night-Time Economy We will drive economic growth and create new opportunities within Westminster’s evening and night-time economy by fostering a collaborative and unified approach among BIDs, local businesses, cultural institutions and regulatory bodies. This objective will prioritise partnerships that support innovative business models, enhance operational resilience, and leverage shared resources, creating a dynamic and sustainable nighttime environment that benefits both local communities and the broader economy.

ED4.1

Collaborate with for BID-Led Evening and Night-Time Economy Strategies: We will actively collaborate with Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to support the creation of their evening and night-time economy strategies.

This collaboration will involve sharing insights, data, and best practices to help shape plans that align with both local business goals and the broader objectives of this strategy.

Objective ED5

Diversifying Central Westminster’s Evening and Night-Time Economy We will enable a vibrant, inclusive evening and night-time economy in Central Westminster that expands beyond traditional alcohol-led venues, supporting diverse offerings that appeal to a wide range of visitors, residents, and workers. This approach will seek to balance cultural enrichment, family-friendly experiences, and economic growth with community wellbeing.

ED5.1

Review Licensing and Planning Policies to Support a More Diverse Evening and Night-Time Economy in Central Westminster: We will review and explore the scope within our new Licensing Policy Framework and a future revision of our City Plan to encourage a broader mix of businesses and cultural venues operating in Central Westminster’s evening and night-time economy. This will involve diversifying the range of activities beyond traditional hospitality, including late-night retail, cultural institutions, creative workspaces, and community-led initiatives. At the same time, policies will be designed to balance economic growth with community impact, ensuring residential amenity and public safety are safeguarded.

Objective ED6

Creating Vibrant Late-Night Entertainment Zones (LNEZ) in Oxford Street, Regent Street, The Strand and Victoria Street.

Subject to the outcome of public consultation, we will seek to establish Late-Night Entertainment Zones (LNEZ) in the following areas: • Oxford Street (between Regent Street and Tottenham Court Road/Charing Cross Road) • The Strand (between Villiers Street and Savoy Street)

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Victoria Street (North) from Buckingham Gate to Buckingham Palace Road, including the Nova and Cardinal Place developments and Terminus Place) These zones could be designed to enhance Westminster’s cultural and economic vibrancy, supporting business growth while reducing the pressure for additional night-time activity in residential areas. This would strengthen the city’s global reputation for diverse and dynamic night-time experiences. In developing these areas, we will ensure that only responsible late-night operators, those who respect residents, visitors, and local businesses, are permitted to operate, maintaining a balanced and sustainable night-time economy.

ED6.1

Incorporating Late-Night Entertainment Zones into Licensing Policy for a Dynamic Night-Time Economy: We will consider integrating Late-Night Entertainment Zones (LNEZs) into Westminster’s new Licensing Policy Framework, supported by aligned planning policies to ensure effective and coordinated delivery. These zones will focus on providing a diverse range of late-night entertainment options, such as live music, dancing, and cultural activities, to reinforce Westminster’s status as a global destination for vibrant nightlife.

The proposed LNEZs will be located in: • Oxford Street - between Regent Street and Charing Cross Road, limited to properties with frontages onto the street.

• Regent Street - between Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus, • The Strand - between Villiers Street and Savoy Street, applying only to properties fronting the street.

• Victoria Street – between the junctions of Artillery Row and Buckingham Palace Road limited to properties with frontages to the street or within Cardinal Place and Nova Development areas.

Supporting businesses in these zones will be a key priority, ensuring the sector’s sustainability and enabling it to thrive while contributing to a vibrant, inclusive, and culturally rich night-time economy.

ED6.2

Incorporating Community Feedback in the Development of LNEZs: We will actively engage local communities and other stakeholders in the development of Late-Night Entertainment Zone (LNEZ) proposed locations, their draft special policies and how they should be managed.

This collaborative approach will ensure that LNEZs reflect the cultural diversity and unique character of Westminster, offering inclusive entertainment options that meet the needs and interests of residents, tourists, and workers alike. By incorporating community insights, we aim to create vibrant zones that enhance local appeal while fostering a sense of belonging and shared ownership.

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Environmental Sustainability and Biodiversity Objective ES1

Embedding Environmental Sustainability and Biodiversity into this Strategy.

As we deliver this strategy, we will prioritise environmental sustainability by ensuring our actions promote cleaner air, minimise environmental impact, and enhance biodiversity, supporting a greener and more sustainable evening and night-time economy.

ES1.1

We will ensure that environmental sustainability, including climate impact, air quality, and biodiversity, is a core consideration in all aspects of delivering this strategy. This commitment will guide decision-making, project planning, and implementation to promote cleaner air, reduce environmental impacts, and enhance biodiversity, creating a greener and more sustainable evening and night-time economy.

Objective ES2

Advancing Green Lighting and Sustainable Infrastructure in Westminster’s Evening and Night-Time Economy We will work with businesses and partners to actively reduce the environmental impact of Westminster’s evening and night-time economy, by supporting the implementation of energy-efficient lighting where appropriate, promoting green infrastructure (where permitted under the planning system), and encouraging or enforcing eco-friendly operational practices across the evening night-time sector.

ES2.1

Supporting the Transition to Low-Emission Commercial Cooking in the Evening and Night-Time Economy: In alignment with the Council’s Air Quality Action Plan, we will support evening and night-time venues in reducing carbon emissions and air pollutants created by commercial cooking by providing guidance and signposting to available support for adopting cleaner, more sustainable practices. This includes offering advice on alternative cooking technologies, such as switching to electric hobs and ovens, and assessing the feasibility of implementing pollution control systems and good practice in maintaining filtration technologies. Through the Clean Cooking campaign, we will also raise awareness of the environmental impact of commercial cooking and encourage evening and night-time economy venues to adopt low-emission/pollution solutions.

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Help us to shape the Westminster After Dark Implementation Plan The Westminster After Dark strategy will be delivered through a structured and phased approach, ensuring long-term sustainability, adaptability, and measurable impact.

Implementation will take place across three distinct plans, each aligned with different phases of the strategy’s lifespan. These implementation plans will be dynamic and responsive, evolving in line with emerging trends, technological advancements, and the shifting needs of Westminster’s communities, businesses, and visitors.

To ensure the successful execution of the strategy, continuous collaboration, monitoring, and refinement will be fundamental. This requires a commitment to data-driven decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and a framework for measuring progress against key objectives.

Each phase of implementation will be designed to address Westminster’s evolving evening and night-time landscape, balancing growth and innovation with sustainability and inclusivity.

Achieving the vision of Westminster After Dark Strategy will require strong leadership, strategic coordination, and meaningful partnerships between residents, businesses, cultural institutions, community groups, and public sector bodies. The collective effort of all stakeholders is essential in driving forward the actions set out in the implementation plans, ensuring that Westminster remains a vibrant, accessible, and safe destination after dark.

We Want to Hear Your Views Our Westminster After Dark strategy represents a shared vision for the future of our city’s evening and night-time environment, and your input is essential in shaping both its direction and implementation.

To ensure the strategy reflects the needs and aspirations of our communities, we have launched a public consultation to gather your thoughts, ideas, and feedback on the draft Westminster After Dark Strategy. While this consultation is underway, we also invite you to share your views on the proposed actions outlined in this document, as well as any additional actions you believe should be considered in the development of the foundation phase implementation plan.

This is your opportunity to help shape Westminster’s future after dark, ensuring it becomes a vibrant, safe, inclusive, and sustainable destination for all.

The consultation will be open for just over fourteen weeks, running from Tuesday 11th March 2025 to Sunday 22nd June 2025.

How You Can Get Involved We welcome input from residents, businesses, workers, visitors, and community organisations. Your feedback will help us refine the strategy to reflect the diverse needs and priorities of everyone who experiences Westminster after dark.

You can participate by:

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Visiting our Westminster After Dark Strategy engagement platform and completing a survey via our website, www.westminster.gov.uk/westminster-after-dark and following the links, Attending one of our in-person or virtual consultation events (dates, locations and how to register are available via our website).

Sharing your views via email at westminsterafterdark@westminster.gov.uk.

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Westminster After Dark Strategy: Developing the first actions for the Foundation Phase Implementation Plan (2025 – 2030).

Policy and Strategy Corporate Services Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP www.westminster.gov.uk/westminster-after-dark

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