Bolton to Consider Late Night Levy

In recent times we have seen a number of councils terminate their late-night levies in an attempt to help promote the high street and hospitality in the area, however, it is reported that Bolton are looking to introduce a late-night levy from January 2024. The proposal is aimed at the very late-night operators as it will only be triggered in relation to premises operating beyond 3am.

The usual exemptions of premises providing overnight accommodation, theatres, cinemas etc are to apply along with New Year’s Day - that is the trading from midnight on the 31^st December.

However, there will be no discounts for membership or involvement in best practice schemes such as Best Bar None.

The proposal is still in consultation and will need to complete the statutory procedure before implementation, but this appears to be an attempt to create a 3am curfew on the operation of businesses in the area. Operators who wish to avoid paying the levy can apply within 2 months of its implementation to reduce their hours by way of a minor variation in respect of which no application will fall due.