The Metropolitan Police have formally objected to a Mayfair nightclub's proposal to extend its live music hours until 6 am. Tape, an exclusive venue situated on Hanover Square, currently holds a licence permitting live musical performances until 3 am. The proposed extension, if granted, would allow the club to host live acts for an additional three hours, concluding at 6 am.
The police's primary concerns revolve around the potential for an escalation in crime and disorder within the vicinity of the club. They argue that extending operational hours for live music could lead to an increase in late-night disturbances, anti-social behaviour, and other criminal activities, thereby placing additional strain on police resources in an already busy area.
Westminster City Council's licensing committee is tasked with reviewing the application and will ultimately decide whether to approve or reject the extension. The committee's decision will consider various factors, including representations from the police, local residents, and the applicant, Tape nightclub.
This particular part of Mayfair is already recognised as a 'cumulative impact zone' by Westminster City Council. This designation is applied to areas where there is a high concentration of licensed premises, and where the council believes that granting further late-night licences could contribute to an unacceptable level of crime, disorder, and public nuisance. This existing designation underscores the sensitivity of granting further extensions in the area.
The outcome of this application will be closely watched by other late-night venues and residents in central London, as it could set a precedent for future licensing decisions in areas with a high density of entertainment establishments.