Westminster licensees join forces to have say in local policy decisions

A group of licensees in Westminster, London, have formed a new trade body to represent the views of pub and bar operators in the area.

The new association, the Westminster Licensees Association, is the first collective voice for licensed retailers in the borough, and aims to represent the views of the sector in the local policy making process.

The association was formed in response to recent moves by Westminster City Council to improve consultation with the late-night entertainment sector and the development of new planning and licensing policy for the borough. It aims to ensure that the needs and concerns of local operators are addressed and to promote a wider recognition of the social, cultural and economic benefits the trade brings to Westminster.

Trade leaders have criticised the council in the past over its policy of banning new late licences in the West End and other key areas of Westminster. They claim the policy gives unfair weight to residents' views.

Philip Matthews of the Rock Garden bar and restaurant, who has been appointed secretary of the association, said: "The association was set up in the belief that we need to work with the council to ensure that the needs and concerns of the late-night entertainment sector are taken into account in the policy debate.

"Workable solutions to identified problems and concerns can only be developed if the council works with local operators who have hands on experience of dealing with these issues on a day-to-day basis."

Founding members of the Westminster Licensees Association include flagship outlets such as the Rock Garden, Rainforest Café and Atlantic as well as major companies Chorion and Interpub, and a number of independent outlets. The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers, Restaurateur's Association and Covent Garden Restaurateurs Association are supporting the association's work. The association now represents a third of all pubs and bars in Westminster and is seeking to increase its membership across the licensed trade.

Karl Harrison of the Spot club and bar said: "Important policy decisions are being made by Westminster City Council every day which affect my business. The Westminster Licensees Association is the only means of ensuring that my voice is heard and understood by key decision-makers. I would urge all licensees in the borough to work with us to strengthen that voice."

Information about membership is available from Philip on 020 7836 4052 or Karl on 020 7379 5900.