Why there is a row about standing up while drinking in central London
Westminster City Council is considering new licensing policies that would discourage 'vertical drinking' in central London to reduce public disorder. The proposal aims to prioritize seated service, sparking concerns about the impact on traditional pub culture.
Why it matters
It reflects a broader urban planning tension between managing high-density nightlife and preserving cultural traditions.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Pubs are among Soho's main attractions
It has been claimed so-called vertical drinking is under threat in the heart of London's West End.
In short: standing up to have a drink, often outside.
The borough of Westminster has more licensed venues than anywhere else in the UK with about 500 pubs, bars and wine bars, and roughly 1,750 cafes and restaurants.
It follows a report on page three of Thursday's Guardian newspaper, headlined "Time at the bar? Council accused of trying to stop pubs being pubs with 'no standing' plan". The headline in its online version of the story has since been tweaked , external .
By 1 October, Westminster City Council (WCC) needs to update its current licensing policy - drawn up in 2021.
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