November 22nd 2024.
Over the years, Soho has been facing a decline, and this has been a major concern for business owners in the area. They fear that if the current situation continues, Soho will become just like Leicester Square - tacky and unappealing. According to the Soho Business Alliance (SBA), the high number of objections from residents to business applications is a major contributing factor to this decline. In light of this, the SBA has urged London and Westminster Council officials to stop giving in to the constant complaints from residents about noise levels and instead, allow people to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Soho once again.
Unfortunately, many businesses in Soho are facing strict limitations, such as being unable to obtain an alcohol license past 12am and not being allowed to have tables and chairs outside. Mark Fuller, the owner of Sanctum Hotel, shared his experience with Metro, saying that he was once told off by the council for having one of his chair legs sticking out over the allowed area. He also expressed concern that if independent venues are unable to thrive, Soho will become saturated with American sweet shops and other chains, just like Leicester Square.
One of the main contributors to this decline in Soho is the Soho Society - a resident's group that has reportedly objected to 102 planning applications since 2022, with only one being approved. The SBA has written to the council, the Mayor, and their MP, expressing their frustration with the high rate of rejected planning and licensing applications.
John James, the director of Soho Estates and a member of the SBA, believes that Westminster Council is acting like a rural parish council and that many businesses are considering moving out due to the council's bias against them. It has become a challenge for businesses to expand their licenses to serve alcohol later, which has only contributed to the decline of London's nightlife. Mark, who has been working in Soho since the 1980s, shared that when he first started, most licenses ended at 3am, and compared to now, the area is only declining.
On the other hand, some residents still believe that Soho has a village feel to it and do not agree with the complaints about noise and crowds. Phil Nash, a consultant who has been living in the area for a year, shared that although it can be busy at times, the noise is not too much of an issue for him. However, he also added that when he moved to Soho, he knew it wouldn't be quiet and peaceful and that he would welcome the idea of places staying open for longer.
The Soho Society, on the other hand, has rejected the idea that they have objected to so many applications, stating that their main concern is to protect the area's heritage. They also pointed out that nearly three-quarters of all crime in Westminster occurs in the West End Ward and St James Ward, and according to the police, a significant portion of it is related to the night-time economy.
Jamie Poulton, who opened the Broadwick Hotel last year, has already experienced animosity from both residents and the council. He shared that they are just trying to get on with their business, but it feels like they are being constantly targeted. He also mentioned that despite being in the heart of London, the area feels lifeless. Siobhan MacGill, who runs a musical theatre bar, also shared her struggles with strict limitations, such as being allowed only two tables and four chairs outside during the summer months. She also expressed concern about the rising crime in the area, which has been discouraging people from coming to Soho for a night out.
The council spokesperson stated that they strive to find a balance between the needs of residents and businesses, ensuring that Soho remains a hub of entertainment and culture while also being an attractive place for people to live. They also mentioned that their licensing service works closely with businesses to ensure that they operate legally and safely. The Metropolitan Police also assured that they have a team dedicated to reducing crime and antisocial behavior and increasing safety in Soho, with regular patrolling and the installation of new mobile CCTV cameras.
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