'All night long, all night,' sang Lionel and soon that could be the case for party-goers in Wandsworth.

Wandsworth Council is reviewing its late night licensing policy which currently means venues must shut up shop at midnight during the week.

On weekends the policy means no premises can stay open past 2am, leaving many revellers clutching their pints in dismay when lights are flicked back on.

Since licensing laws were changed in 2005 Wandsworth Council have made it their aim to protect neighbours from the impact of late night drinking.

Late night drinking until the early hours has always been restricted, but with the growth of nightlife culture in places like Battersea, Balham and Clapham Junction, this could soon change.

And with 24 hour tube lines being introduced in 2015, nightlife across London is set to drastically change, with Wandsworth venues set to lag behind if 2am policy is still in place.

However, for people living in the vicinity of the clubs, the 2am kick-out can also be a nightmare, with people continuing to party outside the venue, screeching to flag down taxi's or filling up takeaway restaurants.

Recently an all night rave kept neighbours up in Earlsfield, while some people living near Battersea Bridge have reported to have seen amorous couples going at it shortly after the club has shut.

Three years have passed since the last review and councillors have said it is time the public are given a change to comment on the policy.

Members of the public and businesses are being invited to say whether or not the current system should be retained or whether more relaxed opening hours should be permitted.

Councillor Martin D Johnson, chairman of the council's regulatory licensing committee, said: "Our policies were originally drawn up following extensive consultation with residents, local amenity groups, the police and businesses involved in the drinks and entertainment industry.

"Three years on it is only right and proper that we ask the question again to make sure that our policies continue to properly reflect the views of local residents and also those of businesses.

"We believe that our policy strikes the right balance between protecting the interests of residents, taking steps to combat crime and disorder and also promoting the borough's night time economy.

"Wandsworth has a substantial residential population and it is our duty to ensure that business activity does not have a detrimental effect on the quality of life experienced by local people."

Well I for one hope they might consider letting me dance a little bit longer to 'All Night Long', Martini glass in hand.

Although it could also mean more hangovers for the borough of Wandsworth.

For more information visit Wandsworth Council's websiteTo submit a comment email licensing@wandsworth.gov.uk or write to The Licensing Section, Environment and Community Services, PO Box 47095, London SW18 9AQ

 

TODAY'S TOP WANDSWORTH STORIES