From dusk till dawn: expanding London’s Night Time Enterprise Zone model
Project: pilot NTE model rolled out in Waltham Forest
The Purpose
Night Time Enterprise Zones aim to bolster and expand the night-time economy in local high streets and town centres. They emphasize the significance of night-time workers and businesses in contributing to local economies, especially in a city like London where a substantial portion of the population is active at night.
The Challenge
The challenge faced by the project involves understanding the unique challenges encountered by residents, businesses and workers at night. This understanding is crucial for developing effective strategies to diversify high street offerings, extend opening hours, raise awareness of night-time opportunities, and create an inviting night-time environment.
Walthamstow’s pilot Night Time Enterprise Zone demonstrated that high streets can be reimagined and animated late into the evening without relying solely on alcohol-related activities.
The Solution
Waltham Forest was selected to pilot a Night Time Enterprise Zone, and their approach involved experimenting with various tactics to enhance the high street’s appeal at night. This included activities like ‘High Street Adventures’ to encourage longer business hours and make the high street more engaging. The pilot project was rigorously evaluated, leading to recommendations that could assist other London high streets in thriving at night.
The Impact
Walthamstow’s pilot Night Time Enterprise Zone demonstrated that high streets can be reimagined and animated late into the evening without relying solely on alcohol-related activities. The pilot resulted in a significant increase in high street footfall, improved safety perceptions, and a more inclusive and welcoming environment, attracting families and young people. The success of this pilot indicates that Night Time Enterprise Zones can be a valuable tool in local strategies to support high street recovery across London.
Source: World Cities Culture Report 2022
Images Courtesy © Greater London Authority, Getty/Canva
