What is the late night levy in Newcastle?

The late night levy is an annual charge imposed on Newcastle venues licensed to sell alcohol between midnight and 06:00, which helps fund safety measures.

Why is the Newcastle late night levy being reviewed?

The levy is being reviewed due to the financial struggles faced by the hospitality sector, including rising business rates and energy bills, which have led to venue closures.

What are the financial impacts of the late night levy on Newcastle venues?

The levy is an additional financial burden for licensees, with charges ranging from £299 to £4,400 annually, impacting businesses already facing economic challenges.

Home / Business and Economy / Newcastle Late Night Levy Under Review

Newcastle Late Night Levy Under Review

29 Jan

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Summary

Newcastle's late night levy is under review by the city council.
The levy was introduced in 2013 and funds safety measures.
Venues face financial hardship due to rising costs.

The late night levy, a charge applied to Newcastle venues licensed to operate between midnight and 06:00, is currently under review by Newcastle City Council. Introduced in 2013, this annual levy, which generated £242,000 in 2023/24, helps fund essential safety initiatives such as street marshals and CCTV systems within the city center. However, the hospitality sector in Newcastle has been facing significant financial pressures.

Numerous establishments within the city's nightlife scene have announced closures over the past year, including well-known venues like Horticulture, Prohibition, and The Mushroom. These closures are attributed to escalating business rates, energy costs, and other operational expenses. Industry leaders argue that while some sectors receive relief, others like restaurants, cafes, and hotels continue to struggle without similar support.