Code of Good Practice for City of London

The City of London Corporation (CLC) has announced that it will be introducing a new 'code of good practice' for premises permitted to serve alcohol that will see businesses rated by a traffic light system.

Under the new scheme, providers that implement good practice will be given a green light while those that continue to be problematic will receive an amber or red light, with the rating being awarded based on the number of points received in a given length of time.

Premises that continue to be a problem will be offered advice and help with a view to improving standards and minimising subsequent issues.

According to CLC, which is responsible for activities within the Square Mile around Bank, Monument and Mansion House, the system will see good behaviour rewarded among premises and poor practice reprimanded.

The new system has been introduced in an effort to improve standards among the 750 alcohol-serving businesses located in the square mile, 290 of which are permitted to do so after midnight on at least one day a week.

It is hoped that the traffic light system will also reduce the need for enforcement action such as prosecution and review, with advice and assistance taking the place of expensive courtroom dramas.

"These programmes will help to reduce alcohol related crime and disorder in the City, particularly at night," said Edward Lord, chairman of the City of London Corporation’s licensing committee.

"More importantly they will ensure a safe and vibrant night-time economy in the Square Mile, keeping the City safe and enjoyable for its residents and workers, and ensuring that the world’s leading international financial centre remains an attractive place to work and live."

The move comes as the City of London prepares to enter a consultation period on whether a late-night levy on pubs, clubs and other alcohol suppliers would be beneficial.

If approved, proceeds from the levy would go towards the costs of policing the City's night-time activities.

Published 25th April, 2013

© 2013 Estates IT Limited