Soho nightlife regulations tighten

What happened: London's nightlife regulations have tightened, particularly in the Soho district. The earliest council-mandated bedtime for bars and restaurants is 11 pm, with Westminster Council pushing to ban standing in pubs. The Soho Society, a residents' group, has been opposing new bar and restaurant licenses, drawing criticism from operators who fear it could harm Soho's international reputation. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has vowed to overrule the society's objections to support outdoor dining in Soho.

Market impact: The hospitality sector, specifically bars and restaurants in London's Soho and West End, is significantly affected. Strict licensing rules and potential bans on standing could reduce footfall and revenue, impacting businesses' bottom lines. The Soho Society's objections could also deter new investments in the area. Conversely, Khan's support for outdoor dining might boost businesses post-pandemic.

What to watch next: The Westminster Council's decision on banning standing in pubs, expected by Q2 2023. The Soho Society's next move against new licenses, with potential legal challenges. Khan's implementation of the seasonal pedestrianisation scheme in Soho, starting summer 2023.