Scott Collins, co-founder of the MEATliquor restaurant chain, has expressed concerns over Mayor Sadiq Khan's new licensing powers, warning that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach could 'erase local character' and make London's nightlife 'bland'. Collins, who recently opened a late-night sports bar called BLOODsports in Covent Garden, said he would not have launched the venue if he had known a year ago how tough market conditions would be.
Under a government pilot scheme, Khan has been granted powers to override local council licensing decisions in areas deemed key to the night-time economy, aiming to cut bureaucratic 'red tape'. However, Collins told The Standard that while a unified strategy could improve clarity, it must include input from operators and genuine engagement with businesses, councils and residents.
Collins highlighted the challenges of navigating inconsistent licensing rules across boroughs, noting that he spent weeks resolving disputes with residents' associations despite adhering to a pre-existing 15-year licence. He argued that residents living near established licences should not have a say if the licence is being run appropriately, adding: 'If you're living in Soho or Covent Garden and you don't like the noise or the hustle and bustle, don't live there.'
The hospitality veteran, who has been in the industry for over 20 years, said the sector is no longer fun due to rising costs, recruitment difficulties, and a shift away from alcohol. He warned that without direct engagement between operators and neighbours, councils can feel like they are 'working against you'. Collins stressed that nightlife is 'the culture that people remember and come back for' and should not be an afterthought.
