London Mayor appoints Philip Kolvin QC as chair of Night Time Commission

The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has appointed leading licensing lawyer Philip Kolvin QC as chair of London’s revamped Night Time Commission which aims to improve and safeguard the capital’s night time economy.

The Commission brings together local authorities, the Metropolitan Police, club and venue owners, and residents with aim of safeguarding the future of clubs and live music venues in the capital. The commission works alongside the newly-appointed ‘Night Czar’, performer Amy Lamé.

Philip Kolvin QC is head of Cornerstone Barristers and a Patron and past Chairman of the Institute of Licensing. He is also on the advisory board of the Night Time Industries Association. He recently acted on behalf of Fabric nightclub in securing an agreement between the venue and Islington Council to regain its licence and also took the first licensing case to the Supreme Court and European Court.

The reform of the Commission and the appointment of Lamé are aimed at reversing the decline in London’s late night trade. Since 2008, the capital has lost 50 per cent of its nightclubs and 40 per cent of its live music venues and the Mayor has made a manifesto commitment to protect these vital cultural spaces.

Kolvin said: “As the capital grows, we must plan for a growing night-time economy for the whole of Greater London – something that can only be achieved through proper partnerships with stakeholders, strategic planning, and investment in infrastructure.

“It’s vital that we ensure that everyone benefits from a thriving night-time economy – from those who want a great night out, to those who want a good night’s sleep. I look forward to working with the capital’s new Night Czar, Amy Lamé, so that we can develop the role of London as the global leader of the night-time economy.”