Redbridge Council’s licensing authority votes for late-night levy

The London Borough of Redbridge Council’s licensing authority has voted in favour of a late-night levy on businesses with licences to sell alcohol between midnight and 6am.

The proposal will now be put before the full council. Campaign for Real Ale London regional director Geoff Strawbridge said it was “a really disappointing move” which “completely ignores the social and community value of pubs”.

He said: “January is a very tough time year for publicans, when trade usually dips. The news that the council has now decided to adopt a late night levy will be yet another blunt force tax adding to the bottom line of Redbridge’s hard working licensees.”

Money raised by the tax would be spent on policing the night-time economy, with the east London borough estimating £80,000 would be collected each year. It is believed 120 businesses would be affected, each receiving bills for up to £4,440 per venue.