Everyone loves a good night out, but the government’s recent announcement to allow pubs to stay open 24/7 under its new licensing plans is more of a headache than a celebration.
While supporting local pubs and grassroots music scenes is vital—especially as 209 pubs have shuttered in the first half of this year alone—the government’s approach misses the mark entirely. Sir Keir Starmer and his team may be applauded for aiming to revive the hospitality sector, but these measures threaten to undermine the very communities these venues serve.
Local pubs are the heart of many towns and villages, providing social hubs and cultural spaces. SomersetLive readers have expressed deep concern every time another venue closes, highlighting how fragile this sector has become amid rising costs, rents, taxes, and specifically the National Insurance hike in April.
However, the government’s latest Licensing Act 2003 review ignores these real challenges. Instead, it targets a crucial tool for community transparency: the requirement that alcohol licensing changes be published as public notices in local newspapers.
Scrapping these public notices would conceal proposed changes, such as new pubs opening or extended opening hours, from the very people who live nearby. Communities in places like Henstridge, Yeovil, and Melksham have fought to have their voices heard on such matters — fights that would be impossible if these notifications disappeared.
Landlords and venue owners do not see public notice requirements as burdensome; rather, they understand these notices keep communities informed—especially vulnerable groups who rely on local print media. Public notices also support local journalism financially, funding vital reporting that strengthens community cohesion and accountability.
Senior hospitality figures have called the government’s plan “total nonsense,” warning it would raise costs without helping struggling venues or increasing entertainment options. Landlords themselves dismiss it as a “complete waste of time.”
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle claims the review will “cut through the red tape” to help venues flourish while protecting community safety. But how safe is it for neighbors to learn about a venue staying open until 6 a.m. only after the party has started?
This change is a transparent attempt to limit public awareness and debate under the guise of deregulation. It does nothing to address landlords’ core struggles and undermines local democracy by removing communities’ ability to consent or object.
In reality, this policy is like selling a dodgy pint at a discount — it might look like a good deal, but it leaves everyone worse off. The government’s rhetoric about backing local pubs and newspapers contrasts sharply with this move, which will damage both.
Earlier promises by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy to enhance local media and community trust ring hollow in light of this decision. If ministers truly want to help pubs and protect democracy, they must keep public notices in trusted newspapers and explore alternative support for struggling venues.
Without urgent reconsideration, the government’s “British night out” will end in a hangover for local communities and the democratic rights they deserve.