Six Till Six was commissioned by the Greater London Authority to support the development of London’s first Strategic Licensing Policy as part of the Strategic Licensing Pilot Programme. The project explored how licensing can better support a thriving, inclusive, safe and sustainable night time economy while creating a stronger strategic framework for decision-making across the capital.

Working closely with the GLA, we helped draft the policy, develop the supporting evidence base and design a comprehensive stakeholder engagement programme. We engaged with London boroughs, the Metropolitan Police, industry representatives, resident groups, community organisations and licensing practitioners to understand how a more strategic approach to licensing could support London’s economic, cultural and social ambitions.

The project also explored the introduction of Mayoral powers relating to licensing decisions of strategic importance, drawing on lessons from London’s planning system and wider best practice. Through policy development, stakeholder engagement and evidence gathering, Six Till Six helped shape a new approach to licensing that recognises the importance of hospitality, culture and the night time economy to London’s future.