Southwark Council approves late-night levy approval

Southwark Council has voted in favour of a late night levy, which will see all licensed businesses in the area be charged to sell alcohol after midnight.

The levy was approved at a Council meeting yesterday (17 July), and was opposed by local businesses and trade body UKHospitality.

The group wrote to the Council this week urging it not to introduce the tax, and also gathered the signatures of more than 200 local businesses, residents and customers, against the levy.

Kate Nicholls, chief executive, UKHospitality, said: “Obviously, we are incredibly disappointed that Southwark Council has chosen to ignore the concerns of local businesses and residents. Pubs, bars and nightclubs that have helped drive the revitalisation of the area and foster a fantastic community spirit are now going to be penalised.

“By introducing a discredited tax, that the House of Lords recommended be abolished, Southwark Council has proven it only cares about revenue-raising, rather than supporting the local community. Local businesses, their employees and customers are the ones who will suffer.”