London Mayor’s licensing plans “undermine local democracy,” says Richmond Council Leader

The Leader of Richmond Council has warned that proposals from the Mayor of London to call in and potentially overturn local licensing decisions risk “undermining local democracy” and weakening public trust.

The plans would allow the Mayor to intervene in certain licensing applications – including larger venues – where they are deemed of “strategic importance”.

Councillor Gareth Roberts said: “Licensing is one of the clearest expressions of local democracy – decisions taken by councillors who know their communities.

“These proposals cut across that. ‘Strategic’ is undefined and likely to widen – taking decisions away from those who understand the area best.”

It comes as City Hall looks to take a stronger role in shaping London’s night-time economy. Councillor Roberts added: “We support business. But decisions must reflect local realities. We work with residents, businesses, and police to strike the right balance – and that balance cannot be set from City Hall.”

He warned the plans “could erode confidence in the system”. “People expect decisions about their neighbourhoods to be made locally. If they can be overridden, trust is weakened.”

Councillor Roberts said councils should be worked with – not bypassed: “Boroughs are best placed to make these calls.

“Work with us – don’t take powers away.”

Richmond Council’s Leader has written to the Mayor of London setting out these concerns.