City bars praised for reducing crime and antisocial behaviour

Run in partnership by the City of London Corporation, City of London Police and the London Fire Brigade, Safety Thirst is open to all licensed premises in the Square Mile and has been running since 2006.

Applicants are assessed on the outcome of a safety thirst assessment and how successful they have been in reducing of alcohol-related disorder, crime and noise complaints.

This year, more than 60 applications were received, with 57 sites, including Dirty Martini in Bishopsgate and the Gable at Moorgate successful.

Licensed premises that receive an award are eligible for a 30% discount on the late-night levy, which funds the management of the local night-time economy.

Consistently improving standards

City of London Corporation’s licensing committee chairman Peter Dunphy commented: “This year we have had our highest number of premises accredited, 57 in total.

“This is a testament to licensees in the City of London promoting responsible alcohol consumption and higher operating standards in their venues.

“It creates a safer leisure environment and night-time economy in the City, allowing people to socialise in well-run premises.

“Standards have consistently improved at our licensed venues participating in the scheme and we had a large number of high-scoring venues to choose from this year, which was fantastic.

“These premises are leading the way and I hope this encourages more venues to come forward and join the scheme.”

There are more than 900 licensed premises in the Square Mile, over 300 of which are licensed to sell alcohol after midnight.