LEADING voices from the region’s breweries, pubs, restaurants, cultural and entertainment venues have been chosen to join national industry chiefs to help Mayor Richard Parker protect and revitalise the West Midlands night-time economy.
The Mayor’s Night-Time Economy Commission – chaired by Wolverhampton councillor Chris Burden – will start identifying the biggest challenges facing this important part of the West Midlands economy.
Members will report back to the Mayor next year with their recommendations for a plan designed to reignite the industry and help breathe new life into town centres and high streets.
Mr Parker said: “I’m bringing together some of the best minds in the business. These are industry experts and the brilliant people at the frontline, running our pubs, clubs, restaurants, music venues and cultural spots. I can’t wait to work side by side with them to keep our region buzzing long after dark.
“The night-time economy is huge for us. Around a third of the West Midlands workforce is employed in the sector – 120,000 people in hospitality alone. That’s why it’s a top priority to back businesses, protect jobs, and make sure this sector doesn’t just survive, but thrives.”
The Night-Time Economy Commission will be managed for the Mayor by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
It has been set up at a challenging time for the sector with its Covid recovery slowed by changing consumer behaviours linked to cost-of-living pressures. Concerns over night-time safety, public transport, staffing issues and changes to licensing and other regulations have also played a part.
Coun Burden said: “This is such an important part of our region’s economy and it’s vital the industry and the public sector work together to find the best ways of supporting it now and into the future.
“We have a rich entertainment and cultural history, and I’m thrilled to have been asked by the Mayor to chair this Commission. We’re going to build on the positive work that’s already being done in Wolverhampton and by other councils across the region to develop a positive vision for a region that is a thriving and safe place to work and socialise after dark.”
The night-time economy is part of the region’s everyday economy which employs the workers that provide essential goods and services that people depend on daily.
