Mayor launches night-time economy commission to support West Midlands hospitality and culture

Mayor Richard Parker has announced the formation of the West Midlands Night-Time Economy Commission, bringing together leading figures from hospitality, arts, and entertainment to address challenges facing the region’s after-dark economy. The Commission, chaired by Wolverhampton councillor Chris Burden, will hold its first meeting next week and is expected to deliver recommendations to the Mayor early next year.

The initiative aims to revitalise town centres and high streets, protect jobs, and support businesses operating in the night-time economy, which employs around a third of the West Midlands workforce, including 120,000 people in hospitality alone. Mayor Parker described the sector as a top priority, highlighting its cultural and economic significance and the need to ensure it thrives amid ongoing pressures.

Commission members include representatives from regional venues and national industry bodies: Crissie Rushton (The Halls, Wolverhampton), Alex Nicholson-Evans (Living for the Weekend), Henry Poultney (Grace & James), Dalvinder Dhillon (Dhillon’s Brewery), John Barrett (CVOne), Jack Brabant (Digbeth Dining Club), Toni Grehan (Toni Grehan Arts), Lyle Bignon (Night-Time Industry Association), Jim Cathcart (UKHospitality), Roxy Bentley (Nationwide Caterers Association), and Sophie Asquith and Jay Taylor (Music Venue Trust).

Councillor Burden emphasised the importance of collaboration between the public sector and industry leaders to support the region’s vibrant cultural landscape. He noted the Commission’s role in building on existing local efforts to create a safe and thriving night-time environment.

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) will manage the Commission, which has been established during a period of uncertainty for the sector. Recovery from the pandemic has been hindered by cost-of-living pressures, shifting consumer habits, safety concerns, staffing shortages, and regulatory changes.

Industry leaders welcomed the initiative. Alan Fox of the Nationwide Caterers Association praised the opportunity to represent independent food and drink businesses, while Michael Kill of the Night-Time Industries Association acknowledged the Commission as a long-awaited forum for addressing sector-wide challenges. Sophie Asquith of the Music Venue Trust highlighted the need for coordinated support for grassroots venues, and Kate Nicholls of UKHospitality stressed the sector’s role in economic growth and community vibrancy.

The Commission aligns with the West Midlands Growth Plan, which outlines measures to improve job security and support small businesses. Additional regional efforts include expanding Business Growth West Midlands, returning the bus network to public control, increasing Safer Travel Officers, and supporting initiatives to combat sexual harassment in entertainment venues.