Last week, Heart of London Business Alliance (HOLBA) submitted its formal response to Westminster City Council’s (WCC) draft Westminster After Dark strategy following a series of in-depth roundtable discussions with members.

HOLBA is a champion of the evening and night-time economy (ENTE), publishing our own Evening and Night-Time Economy Strategy in 2023. We therefore support the positive intentions behind Westminster After Dark however, the West End needs greater recognition within the plan and resources should be directed to improving, supporting and protecting the world class assets and infrastructure that already exists such as our theatres, music venues, galleries, cinemas, casinos and hospitality venues rather than directing it to new and undeveloped ENTE areas.

Our specific comments on the plan include the following key points:

Pillar 1: Safe and Secure

To strengthen safety in the West End, we are calling for the creation of a new West End Strategic Crime Task Force to unite key stakeholders such as: the Council, the Metropolitan Police, TfL, HOLBA, New West End Company, private security firms, and other relevant agencies and develop a Crime Reduction Strategy for the West End.

In addition, we want to see:

• More policing resources for the West End, including a dedicated Borough Commander and consistent officer presence not routinely abstracted to other boroughs
• A modernised and sustainably funded CCTV network, featuring 24/7 monitoring and updated technology such as facial recognition (where appropriate) in high-footfall areas
• Closer collaboration between the police, the Council, and businesses. HOLBA offers access to our extensive footfall, sentiment, and incident data but appropriate analytical resources need to be made available
• Public realm upgrades that include better lighting, more toilets, accessible seating, and de-cluttered pedestrian routes—essential to creating a secure and welcoming night-time environment
• Clear wayfinding, regular cleaning, and consistent maintenance of key routes to ensure both safety and perception of quality

HOLBA does not support the introduction of a new Late-Night Levy, which would represent yet another cost burden on businesses. In our area alone, businesses (via HOLBA) have already invested over £2.5 million in safety and security measures in the last five years—and are committed to a further £2.7 million in the next five. These significant contributions, mirrored by other Westminster BIDs, must be recognised. If a new late night levy is pursued, any revenue raised should be ringfenced for visible, impactful initiatives that reduce crime and improve public safety.

Pillar 2: Accessible and Positive Places

To support the ENTE, transport infrastructure must evolve. We want to see:

• More late-night trains and extended Night Tube services.
• Improved night bus safety and staffing.
• Step-free access at key stations like Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus
• Investment in pedestrian routes and digital wayfinding tools.
• An interactive digital night map to help visitors navigate the West End after dark.

Pillar 3: Communities and Culture

We back plans to protect LGBTQ+ venues and welcome proposals for a dedicated LGBTQ+ Night-Time Forum.

On rough sleeping, we urge the Council to treat this as an emergency and prioritise outreach-led approaches, with more support for services like our My Local Bobby teams and charity partners.

We also support expanding family-friendly and alcohol-free activities to diversify the West End’s evening offer.

Pillar 4: Economic Development and Opportunities

A vibrant night-time economy needs a more flexible, place-based approach to planning and licensing.

We’re calling for:

• Reform of Cumulative Impact Zones, which currently stifle investment.
• A dedicated ENTE team within WCC.
• Licensing decisions based on broader evidence that recognises the contributions businesses make to safety and culture.
• Faster, more transparent licensing processes.
• We support new Late-Night Entertainment Zones—but question why London’s most visited night-time district, the Heart of London area, is not included.

Pillar 5: Environmental Sustainability and Biodiversity

We fully support the integration of environmental sustainability into the strategy and are already leading the way with our Net Zero Strategy, Sustainability Toolkit, and business engagement hub.

We’re calling for:

• More funding for pedestrianisation, greening, and air quality improvements
• Infrastructure to encourage cycling and walking.
• Support for placemaking initiatives to elevate the West End as a destination for the creative and experience economy.

Championing Fair Business Conditions

Additionally, to ensure the ENTE thrives, we are also advocating for:

• The introduction of a new Combined Business Rate to make the business rates system fairer, simpler and cheaper for businesses
• Introducing VAT-free shopping to boost competitiveness.

A Vision for the Future: ICCE Designation

Finally, we are developing a case for a new International Centre for Commerce and Experience (ICCE) designation for key West End areas like Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. This would help HOLBA and key partners to advocate for:

Greater recognition of their cultural and economic value to London and the UK

Tailored planning and licensing powers.

Support for immersive, creative business models.

A platform to unlock the full potential of the Experience Economy.

In Summary
HOLBA stands ready to work in partnership with Westminster City Council to ensure the successful implementation of the Westminster After Dark strategy. With smarter regulation, bold investment, and inclusive thinking, the West End can thrive as a global beacon of culture, safety, and innovation after dark.