Blue Note Jazz Club boss says restrictive licensing laws are killing music after late licence refused

The Challenge of Reviving London’s Jazz Scene: Blue Note’s Struggle

Introduction: A Setback for Live Music in London
The story of Steven Bensusan, the president of Blue Note Entertainment Group, highlights a significant challenge in preserving London’s vibrant music scene. Bensusan, who is also the son of the original founder of Blue Note Cafe, faced a setback when his application for a late license at a proposed London site was denied. This venue, intended to be the flagship European location, was planned to occupy a former gym on St Martin’s Lane in Covent Garden. The denial of a 1am license by Westminster City Council, influenced by objections from the Metropolitan Police and local residents, has left Bensusan both surprised and confused. This decision not only affects Blue Note but also raises concerns about the broader support for live music venues in London.

The Bigger Picture: Nightlife and Venue Closures
The rejection of Blue Note’s late license application is symptomatic of a larger issue. Since the pandemic and Brexit, London’s nightlife has been in decline, with rising costs, decreasing footfall, and stricter licensing policies contributing to the closure of many music venues. Bensusan points out that such restrictive policies are part of a trend that has led to the shutdown of numerous music venues post-COVID. The Met Police cited concerns about potential crime targeting late-night patrons, such as phone snatchers and illegal taxi operators, especially preying on vulnerable individuals. Local residents also expressed fears about noise and safety, urging an 11pm closing time, which Bensusan deems impractical for a music venue needing to host multiple sets.

Blue Note’s Vision and Importance
Blue Note’s plans for the London site were ambitious, featuring a 250-capacity main showroom for legendary artists and a smaller 100-capacity room for emerging talent. Bensusan emphasized the importance of such venues in nurturing UK artists, many of whom, like Ezra Collective and Jamie Cullum, have achieved international success after performing at Blue Note. The venue aimed to provide a platform for artists to perform extended runs, typically four to six nights a week, which is crucial for their development and exposure. Bensusan’s confusion stems from the uneven application of licensing laws, as nearby Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club holds a 3am license, while Blue Note was denied a 1am permit.

The Nightlife Economy: A Struggling Industry
The UK’s nightlife industry is facing significant challenges, as highlighted by a 2024 report from the Night Time Industries Association. The industry’s value has dropped from £37.2bn in 2019 to £33.3bn, with a loss of 37% of clubs over four years, equating to about 10 closures per month. Factors such as strict licensing laws, rising rents, and declining footfall have pushed many venues to the brink. In response, London Mayor Sadiq Khan has established a "nightlife taskforce" to address these issues, comprising industry professionals advised by the Met Police and Transport for London. This initiative aims to support the struggling nightlife sector, which is crucial for the cultural and economic fabric of the city.

Support and Next Steps for Blue Note
Despite the setback, support for Blue Note is growing. A change.org petition started by a jazz fan has garnered over 2,500 signatures, demonstrating public backing for the venue. The Music Venue Trust has also endorsed Blue Note’s proposal, highlighting the importance of grassroots music venues for community and mental health. Bensusan has filed an appeal against the license decision, and the outcome is expected in the coming months. The success of this appeal could set a precedent for other venues facing similar challenges, influencing the future of live music in London.

Conclusion: Preserving Cultural Vitality
The denial of Blue Note’s late license application underscores the broader struggles of London’s live music scene. While the Met Police and local residents have valid concerns, the rigid application of licensing laws may stifle the cultural and economic contributions of venues like Blue Note. The establishment of a nightlife taskforce offers hope for addressing these issues, but the outcome of Blue Note’s appeal will be a critical test of whether London can continue to support its vibrant music scene. The preservation of such venues is not just about nightlife; it is about maintaining the cultural vitality and economic health of the city. As Bensusan and supporters advocate for a more balanced approach to licensing, the future of live music in London hangs in the balance.