The Economy, Culture and Skills Committee met on Wednesday 24 June 2026 to discuss the Strategic Licensing Pilot in London. The committee heard from industry representatives and GLA officials about the challenges and opportunities presented by the pilot, with a particular focus on how it could boost the city's nighttime economy. Decisions were made to note the report and discussion, and to delegate authority to the Chair to agree any output arising from the discussion.

Strategic Licensing Pilot in London

The committee discussed the proposed Strategic Licensing Pilot for London, which aims to create a more consistent, efficient, and transparent licensing system across the city. Alun Thomas, Partner at Thomas and Thomas Partners LLP, highlighted the difficulties businesses face with current licensing, particularly due to Cumulative Impact Policies (CIPs) which he argued hinder economic growth and create a doughnut effect, pushing venues out of desirable areas. Jim Cathcart, Policy Director at UKHospitality, echoed these concerns, noting that the current system has become inflexible and costly, especially for smaller businesses. He expressed hope that the pilot would foster a more collaborative, partnership-based approach between regulators and businesses.

Brian Hook, Director of Arts Theatre at Marble Arch, shared his experiences of navigating different licensing regimes across London and other UK cities, noting that London's approach is often more constrained. He argued that the current licensing system is a significant barrier for immersive theatre and other cultural venues, impacting their ability to generate revenue and sustain operations.

Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries, and Marsha Kuye MBE, Head of 24-Hour London and Strategic Licensing at the GLA, outlined the Mayor's objectives for the pilot. These include boosting London's economy by an estimated £2 billion, improving its reputation as a global nightlife capital, and fostering a culture of collaboration between boroughs, businesses, and communities. They acknowledged the current system's inconsistencies, with 82% of licences approved in London compared to 91% nationally, and highlighted the move towards a more permissive approach, aligning with the original spirit of the Licensing Act 2003.

The discussion also touched upon the potential for extended licensing hours and the role of the GLA as a responsible authority and statutory consultee. Concerns were raised about the potential for the pilot to replicate existing challenges in planning, particularly regarding the varying approaches of different boroughs. The GLA officials assured the committee that decision-making would remain at a local level, but the Mayor would have the power to call in applications of strategic importance. They also emphasised the importance of evidence-based decision-making and the development of a London Licensing Playbook to share best practice.

The committee noted the report and the subsequent discussion, and delegated authority to the Chair, in consultation with party Group Lead Members, to agree any output arising from the discussion.

Economy, Culture and Skills Committee Work Programme

The committee noted its work programme for the 2026/27 Assembly year. The next meeting was scheduled for 20 July 2026.