New plan to boost West Midlands’ nightlife has been unveiled
Proposals aimed at improving late-night transport, safer streets and support for music venues
A major new plan aimed at revitalising the West Midlands’ struggling night-time economy has been unveiled.
The West Midlands Night-Time Economy Commission has published 25 recommendations designed to make the region safer, more vibrant and easier to access after dark.
The commission was set up by West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and brought together representatives from pubs, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and entertainment venues to examine the challenges facing the sector and identify ways to support its recovery.
Among the proposals are improvements to late-night public transport, support for grassroots music venues, safer streets, and help for businesses dealing with rising costs.
The region’s night-time economy currently employs around 324,000 people, including roughly 100,000 working directly in nightlife sectors.
However, businesses have faced mounting pressures in recent years following the impact of the Covid pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis, staffing shortages and changes to licensing and regulation.
Recommendations in the report include more frequent and affordable late-night transport services, the introduction of safe havens for workers and revellers, improved street lighting, and renewed support for independent hospitality businesses and cultural venues.
The report also calls for stronger protections for women, LGBTQ+ people and disabled visitors through a refreshed Night Safety Charter, alongside better training and wellbeing support for night-time workers.
Mr Parker said: “Growing up, nights out were where you found your people. A new band, a great meal, a pub where everyone knew your name.
“It’s where you felt part of something. That still matters – and it employs tens of thousands of people across our region.
“The West Midlands has a night-time economy worth fighting for great pubs, incredible food and music venues that gave the world Black Sabbath and Two-Tone.
“But it only works if people can get there and get home safely, if the streets feel welcoming, and if businesses know someone is on their side.
“This commission has done serious work and sets out some bold new ideas. Some of it we can deliver now. Some of it requires pushing government harder. All of it matters to our region’s cultural offer and our future.”