NTIA Says Escalating Noise Complaints Jeopardise the Future of Night Time Economy

22 July 2024 - Press release

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) is raising serious concerns about the increasing number of noise complaints against licensed venues across the UK, which pose a significant threat to the vitality and sustainability of the UK's night-time economy (NTE).

A recent Freedom of Information request from 20 London Councils revealed a 53% rise in noise complaints in London, from 2,440 in 2018 to 3,732 in the 2022/23 period. Alongside this rise, Noise Abatement Notices have increased from 34 in 2018 to 51 in 2022/23. (Across 19 London Councils )

The NTIA stresses that this is a nationwide issue, severely impacting an industry still working through the cost of operating crisis and the legacy of the pandemic. The surge in complaints and subsequent regulatory actions affected the livelihood of thousands of businesses and employees in the night-time economy, including bars, clubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA, stated, "The substantial increase in noise complaints and Noise Abatement Notices highlights a growing challenge our industry cannot tackle alone. These figures not only show a shift in community tolerance but also underscore the urgent need for balanced urban planning and licensing that supports both residents and businesses."

"The night-time economy is a vital part of the UK's and London's cultural and economic landscape. Central and local governments must act immediately to address these issues, as part of the planning reform process, which took center stage within the King's Speech"

Sarah Clover, Licensing and Planning barrister at Kings Chambers said:
“Noise complaints form a significant proportion of my work, and the numbers of cases are increasing dramatically. This is a trend seen particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, and the devastating effect that neighbour disputes have on hospitality and night time economy businesses is now at crisis level.”

“The costs of litigation present huge burdens for businesses and local authorities, and this expenditure should be unnecessary in functioning licensing and planning regimes. The situation needs addressing urgently, but the long term solutions lie in legislation, and there are some clear steps that need to be taken without delay.”

The NTIA advocates for a cooperative approach between operators, licensing and planning departments, ensuring businesses are fairly represented in noise and nuisance complaints without community bias. The push for the "agent of change" principle in primary legislation will be crucial, ensuring planners consider both business and residential spaces, protecting all parties through necessary mitigations.

Changes in planning must safeguard social and cultural businesses, with a focus on coexistence. A clear framework for decision makers is essential for implementing effective mitigations during planning and development.

Positive Example: Hackney Nights - Early Warning System

A successful initiative in Hackney showcases how industry and stakeholders can manage noise issues effectively:

In 2023, Hackney secured £20,000 from the Mayor of London’s Business Friendly Licensing Fund.
This funding was used to create a new Early Warning System for night-time venues, part of the Hackney Nights portal.
The portal offers night-time venues access to information, resources, training, a gold standard accreditation scheme, and the early warning system.
The Early Warning System alerts licensed premises to noise reports about their venue within one working day.
Noise reports are sent via email, and venues can log into the portal for full details.
Since piloting in December 2023, noise complaints have more than halved.
The system helps address issues early, reducing repeat complaints.
Hackney also conducts noise mediation sessions with venues, achieving a high resolution rate.
The system sends alerts about planning applications for new residential developments within 500 meters of venues, encouraging active participation in the planning process.
Hackney Nights also provides a free advice service with tailored support for venues.
A detailed evaluation of the system will be available once approved by the council.

This initiative demonstrates the potential for effective noise management through collaboration. However, it also highlights the need for ongoing support from the central government to build on these efforts and ensure sustainable solutions.

The NTIA remains dedicated to working with government bodies, local authorities, and community groups to preserve the vibrancy of the night-time economy while ensuring harmonious coexistence with local communities. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is vital to prevent lasting negative impacts on the sector, cultural landscape, and economy.

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