The new powers will be tested out in London – and if successful could be rolled out across the country in a huge boost for the pub sector.
Councils that block pubs and clubs from opening later could have their decisions overturned by elected mayors in a huge boost for the pub sector.
Local mayors would be able to “call in” licensing decisions for nightlife hotspots, under proposals to be trialled in London.
If successful, this approach could be rolled out to other mayors across England, working closely with their own local police forces.
Ministers hope the move will see more bars open later and more al fresco dining.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the change would ensure the hospitality industry had “the conditions to grow” and was not “tied down by unnecessarily burdensome red tape”.
The announcement comes at a time when confidence in the hospitality industry has hit its lowest point in two years as rising wage costs, national insurance contributions and business rates hit the sector this month.
UKHospitality, the industry trade body, has said the combination of rising costs would amount to a £3.4 billion hit for the industry, and has called on the Government to come up with a plan for hospitality.
The Mirror ’s Your Pub Needs You campaign has called for more government support to help the industry recover.
Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London said the extra powers would “allow us to do more to support the capitals pubs, clubs and music venues”.
He added: “This is more evidence that we now have a Government that wants to work with the capital and recognises the role that we can play in delivering economic prosperity and support Londoners as we build a better London for everyone.”
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “Our pubs, restaurants and live music venues are the beating heart of our cultural life, so it is vital they are given every chance to survive and thrive.
“That’s why it’s time to give the Mayor of London new powers to back the capital’s pubs and clubs, as part of our plan to give mayors the tools they need to drive growth.
“Too often, we have seen the complaints of a vocal minority of objectors promoted over the need for our country to grow – we are determined to change this.”
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The decision follows concern that London’s councils have been too cautious, restricting the capital’s nightlife by rejecting applications for things such as extended opening hours.
A source close to the mayor said: “Over recent years, London’s pubs, restaurants, clubs and music venues have been seen as a problem to be managed, rather than as a vital part of London’s economic and social scene.
“From al fresco dining, to late opening hours, to the impact of burdensome licensing conditions, we need to look at how we can support our venues, not work against them.”
