There is a growing trend for extended opening hours later into the evening and, following the public realm improvements in Bromley North, a number of new businesses have moved into the area to take advantage of this, expanding what is known as the “Night Time Economy”.
However, there is evidence that late night opening brings increased incidents of social disorder, especially if alcohol consumption is involved. In Bromley North, a partnership group comprising community representatives, businesses, local police and the local authority are coming together to ensure that extended hours trading is well managed and that the economic growth that comes from extended hours trading is properly balanced with the need to maintain social order.
There have already been a number of test projects such as the implementation of street marshalls on Friday and Saturday nights. A volunteer group of Street Pastors organised by Bromley Town Church is back by popular demand and their numbers are steadily increasing. Further developments are expected in the coming months and updates can be found on the Bromley North Town Team website: www.bromleytownteam.org.