Why the Soho spat over standing while drinking could be the first of many

A dispute over licensing rules in London’s Soho—centered on so-called “vertical drinking” and the area’s status as a “cumulative impact zone”—has escalated into a broader political fight between Westminster Council and Mayor Sadiq Khan. Westminster’s draft licensing plan, produced every five years, must now be consulted with City Hall’s office under changes tied to the 2026 Devolution and Community Empowerment Act. City Hall says the draft is overly restrictive and could harm Soho’s nightlife and businesses, pointing to the night-time economy’s value of £21bn and 600,000 jobs. The council denies it plans to ban people from standing and drinking, arguing media coverage is being used for political aims.