It would also be up to anyone who feared a new bar or takeaway might harm their area to provide evidence, if proposals are adopted.
Camden Council is reviewing how it regulates and licences businesses that sell or supply alcohol, provide regulated entertainment or sell hot food or drink between 11pm and 5am.
It has launched a consultation on its draft Statement of Licensing Policy for 2025 to 2030. Anyone wanting to comment has until March 14.
People living in areas such as Camden and Covent Garden were dismayed by plans to extend the times pubs, restaurants and fast-food outlets can stay open without safeguards to prevent crime and disorder by 30 minutes.
If changes are approved, these would be set to 12am from Monday to Thursday, 12:30 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11pm on Sundays.
The council was also considering scrapping rules governing the number of licensed premises within set areas.
The council’s licensing committee was due to discuss changes to the policy back in January, but cancelled it at the last minute for “further engagement” after outcry from residents’ groups and concerns from police.
Kate Gemmell of Tenants’ and Residents’ Association Camden Town (TRACT), told a packed council meeting last month that the new proposals “firmly shift the balance in favour of businesses”.
Hampstead Town Liberal Democrat councillor Linda Chung has asked people to “spare a thought for the beleaguered residents of Camden Town, Covent Garden and other ‘nighttime economy’ hot spots where booze flows freely”.
The consultation document does not mention abandoning cumulative impact assessments – rules governing the number of licensed premises within set areas.
The draft strategy stresses that a licensing authority “may” publish an assessement, but appears to imply there will no longer be one.
It also seems to put the onus on anyone warning a pub or takeaway might damage the area to provide evidence of this.
It says: “Applications will be determined on the individual merits of each application and, if where the application is likely to significantly add to any cumulative impact (which must be evidenced), the application may not be granted.”
Other changes include increased measures for venues to promote women’s safety and prevent drink-spiking.
They also propose a pre-application advice service to improve clarity around licence applications.
Cllr Camron Aref-Adib, cabinet member for finance and cost of living, said: “We want Camden to be a safe and enjoyable place at night for both our residents and visitors.
“We hope this draft licensing policy will give a boost to Camden’s nightlife and support local businesses in the hospitality industry, while we commit to addressing community concerns such as women’s safety and anti-social behaviour.
“I strongly encourage anyone who lives, works, or visits Camden to complete the consultation to share your views on the proposals.”
Visit the consultation page at https://consultations.wearecamden.org/supporting-communities/licensingpolicy/
Those requiring any other information or help should contact licensing@camden.gov.uk
