Pubs in London may soon implement new guidelines that could prohibit customers from standing and directly ordering at the bar. Westminster council, responsible for overseeing pub licensing regulations in Soho and the West End, is suggesting measures to discourage what they term as “vertical drinking” and bar service. Under the proposed licensing conditions, pubs seeking permits may be required to have drinks served by staff to tables instead of patrons ordering at the bar.
These potential changes could impact the traditional social setting of enjoying a casual chat over a few pints at the bar, with potential restrictions on alcohol serving times. Soho and the West End are renowned hangout spots for post-work gatherings and theater enthusiasts awaiting world-class performances.
The draft policy emphasizes the need to promote responsible drinking habits and provide more seating options within alcohol-serving establishments for customers to comfortably enjoy their drinks and meals through table service, shifting away from open bar setups that facilitate high-volume vertical drinking.
Reports indicate that Westminster council aims to curb large groups congregating outside pubs. Critics have condemned the proposed measures, arguing that they could erode the vibrant pub culture of the region and further burden struggling businesses.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has criticized the proposed restrictions, labeling them as inhibitive and counterproductive to growth. He expressed intentions to utilize new powers to prevent councils from exceeding their authority. Night Time Industries Association CEO Michael Kill highlighted the significance of standing in pubs as a pivotal aspect of British pub culture, fostering social interactions, sports viewing, and the unique ambiance pubs offer across generations.
Advocating for policies favoring increased seating and reduced standing areas could potentially alter the essence of these venues, decrease capacity, raise operational costs, and constrain the flexibility of responsible businesses already facing financial strains.
The council is also contemplating restricting the opening of new pubs and bars in Soho and the West End. The draft policy outlines limitations on certain types of establishments within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone, such as pubs, fast-food outlets, and entertainment venues.
Westminster City Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth and Planning, Councillor Tim Barnes, clarified that the objective is to ensure a positive experience for visitors in the West End, steering venues to manage their clientele responsibly to prevent overcrowding on sidewalks and disturbances from excessive drinking.
Barnes noted the presence of around 4,000 licensed venues in the area, with less than 1.5% of license applications facing rejection.
