On Friday 19 August, London Underground will run its first night tube services as the capital congratulates itself on becoming the nation’s first 24-hour city. But while the Mayor’s office is intent on running trains for the city’s night owls, the rest of local government seems determined to tuck them up in bed. In the past 10 years, a savage assault on our nightlife has caused 40 per cent of London’s music venues to close. Those that are left face a constant struggle to retain a late license.
George Hull, Mark Wilding and Kevin Dunning on the 24-hour tube:
Tonight, if you trek into the city, you’ll be sorely disappointed if you expect to enjoy a late-night drink. Even edgy Shoreditch is dry as a bone by 1am. Perversely, if you really want a night on the town, you must get as far away from the centre as possible.
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