National strategy needed to boost night-time economy, says Portman Group
The LAPG aims to tackle alcohol-misuse in local areas and create vibrant night-time economies.
No one size fits all
Portman Group local partnerships director Rita King said: “While there is no one size fits all, it’s clear that a national strategic approach to promote partnership working across a wide range of stakeholders could help more areas harness their potential.
“Stronger and more vibrant night-time economies will play a key role in rejuvenating town centres up and down the country.”
The LAPG has given its support for the Home Office’s Local Alcohol Action Areas 2.0 programme.
The second-phase of the Government’s scheme was launched in January 2017 and saw 33 new regions sign up to oversee collaboration between businesses and local authorities.
Areas in the programme receive support from the Home Office, Public Health England, the Welsh Government and Nightworks, a company that focuses on diversifying the sector.
Packed agenda
John Timothy, Portman Group CEO and chairman of the LAPG, said it would continue to raise awareness of the importance of the night-time economy, in its annual review.
“We have a packed agenda for the year ahead, continuing to work with our local partners to keep the night-time economy safe and vibrant as well as getting the message out that partnership working is vital to tackling problems and working out solutions,” said Timothy.
More than nine in 10 councils (92%) believed the night economy would play an important role in preventing high streets’ decline, according to data from the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU).
Three-quarters (75%) said they would welcome national-level policy to facilitate the sharing of best practice and information.
