Westminster council urges Mayor Khan to boost policing and transport for Soho nightlife

Westminster council has formally requested that Mayor Sadiq Khan intervene to help Soho’s pubs after a controversy surrounding a ‘vertical drinking’ ban. Council officials argue that halving the Metropolitan Police licensing team and cutting late-night bus routes have created safety and accessibility problems for patrons. Deputy Leader Tim Barnes said the lack of police investment forces the Met to reject many licensing applications on public-safety grounds, while insufficient transport leaves revelers stranded.

The council proposes reinstating licensing staff, deploying more dedicated officers, adding extra night buses, and extending the Night Tube to Thursdays. In response, the mayor’s spokesperson highlighted the recently opened Command Cell in the West End and the existing Night Tube service as measures to protect the night-time economy. Both sides agree that a vibrant, safe nightlife is essential for London’s economy.