Full Breakdown
Westminster Council Proposes Draft Policy to Limit Standing (“Vertical”) Drinking in Soho and the West End
8/6/2026, 9:10:40 PM
Proposed Licensing Changes Target “Vertical” Drinking
Westminster City Council has released a draft licensing policy for the central London “Cumulative Impact Zone,” which includes Soho and the West End. The aim is to shift the traditional bar-room model toward a seated, table-service format and to give the council power to refuse most new applications for pubs, bars, fast-food outlets and entertainment venues in the zone, with limited exceptions.
Political and Legal Context
The proposal arrives as new devolution legislation will soon grant the Mayor of London authority to intervene in local licensing decisions across the capital. Mayor Sadiq Khan has warned that such restrictions could undermine the city’s night-time economy, which is valued at roughly £46 billion and draws tourists from the United States, Australia and Africa. Westminster’s draft policy follows earlier attempts by the council to manage crowding and noise on busy streets, but it expands the focus from public-space disturbances to the internal layout of venues.
Official Responses
“We want people to go out in the West End and have a good time. Our guidance is simply about encouraging venues to manage their customers so people don't pack onto pavements or excessive drinking doesn't disturb others passing by.” — Cllr Barnes Barnes added that each licence application will still be assessed on its merits and that new pubs and fast-food outlets continue to open, citing a recent 24-hour licence extension for the McDonald’s on Leicester Square.
Mayor Sadiq Khan publicly condemned the draft, labeling it “restrictive and anti-growth” and arguing that the hospitality sector, already burdened by post-pandemic debt, energy costs and staff shortages, cannot afford additional limits.
Industry and Public Reaction
Licensing lawyer Philip Kolvin KC described standing at the bar as “social drinking” that fosters community cohesion, while former night-time adviser Sacha Lord likened the proposals to Covid-era restrictions. Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, warned that reducing standing space could lower venue capacity, raise operating costs and alter the atmosphere that attracts customers.
Potential Impact on the Night-time Economy
If adopted, the policy could reshape the character of London’s historic pubs, potentially reducing the number of patrons each venue can serve and increasing reliance on table service. Proponents argue it may lessen street-level disturbances, but critics contend it threatens a £46 billion sector that underpins tourism and local employment. The draft remains open for public consultation, and the final outcome will depend on forthcoming mayoral powers and stakeholder feedback.
