Westminster City Council (WCC) has joined dozens of Local Authorities up and down the country in working with Best Bar None, to help make London’s capital a safer city and further boost the local economy.
As part of the recently launched Westminster Licensing Charter, WCC has teamed up with businesses within one of London’s busiest entertainment areas, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, working together to help reduce alcohol related crime and disorder.
Backed by the Home Office, the BBN programme works in partnership with local government agencies including the police, local authority and industry in raising standards and promoting the responsible management of licensed premises. The scheme launched in Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus marks the start of a more cohesive approach between all to tackle some of the challenges a diverse, vibrant and popular day, evening and nighttime economy presents.
Talking at the event Leader of Westminster City Council, Nickie Aiken said, “Best Bar None plays an important part in recognising achievement in good premises, driving standards and changing the relationship between the council, the police and industry.”
Chairman of Best Bar None, Lord Smith of Hindhead CBE, added, “Helping to tackle crime, disorder and under-age sales, Best Bar None helps to create a safer and more responsible alcohol-related leisure environment that encourages people of all ages to socialise. All statistics show that people who drink with company consume less alcohol than those who stay at home and they also benefit from social cohesion. We want more people to go out and enjoy our great pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants not only in London but also across the country.
“It is increasingly important for the industry to maintain self-regulation in demonstrating licensed premises are well run, responsible businesses that have a positive impact within our towns and cities.”
Rico Pieri, Business Resilience and Night Time Manager Heart of London Business Alliance who are accrediting the scheme said, “We are delighted to be launching the first Best Bar None Accreditation Scheme in Westminster.
This industry-led scheme will help businesses in the evening and nighttime economy raise standards and will also promote responsible management. This will make the West End a safer and more attractive destination for all to enjoy. The initiative has come about through the successful partnership of Westminster City Council, Metropolitan Police and Heart of London Business Alliance.”
Representing licensed operators across the country Ian Payne, Chairman of Stonegate Pub Company said, “Each year millions of customers visit pubs, bars and clubs with the aim of having a good day, evening or night out, all of whom expect to be within a safe environment.
“It is great news that Westminster has instigated a more cohesive approach amongst the agencies and the industry through the auspices of Heart of London and Best Bar None, enabling us all to work towards generating economic growth within this great city.”
Operators from companies including, Mitchells & Butlers, JD Wetherspoon, TGI Fridays, Stonegate Pub Company, Novus Leisure, Greene King, Hippodrome Casino, Platinum Lace, Ruby Blue, Criterion Hotels, Edwardian Hotels, Maxwells and McDonalds all turned out in support of the scheme which launched 30th October 2017.