The Licensing Committee for the Square Mile has launched a new Code of Good Practice, as part of helping licensed premises achieve the very best of outcomes for patrons and themselves, as footfall continues to rise following the pandemic.

Agreed by the City of London Corporation’s Licensing Committee, at the Code’s heart is a commitment to boosting the Square Mile’s 24/7 economy by ensuring that its pubs, clubs, bars, and restaurants can flourish.  

Alongside it, the Committee is now encouraging more information-sharing on events in the City to help premises make the most of increased footfall, and to ensure that people can always find their ideal – and often, nearby - choice of pub, bar, or restaurant.

It comes as the City of London Corporation’s flagship Destination City initiative gathers pace.

Launched in May this year, Destination City will transform the Square Mile’s leisure offer, creating a leading seven-days-a-week destination for UK and international visitors, workers, and residents to enjoy.

The City Corporation wants to ensure that it is helping City hospitality venues – most of which are SMEs – to serve alcohol, and provide entertainment and refreshment in an effective, safe, and responsible way.

In turn, the Code of Good Practice will enable the Square Mile’s daytime and night-time economy to grow, while ensuring that the potential impacts on residents, visitors, workers, and emergency services are minimised. 

Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Licensing Committee, James Tumbridge, said:

“The City’s hospitality premises are key to making our City the ideal place to visit at any time of day.

“Our night-time economy is key to our recovery, and we want to support premises that are enjoying increasing footfall and spend.  Making people feel safe and welcome is all part of boosting our attractiveness as the place for work and leisure.

“Successful businesses are not successful by accident – they are well-managed, comply with regulations, employ well-trained and dedicated staff, and offer a warm and safe welcome to customers. 

“Our new Code of Good Practice will help City licensed premises do exactly that.”

The Code of Good Practice helps City licensed premises comply with their obligations under the Licensing Act 2003, and includes a list of useful City of London contacts and City and national resources, is available from the City of London Corporation’s website.