CLIENT: London Borough of Hammersmith & FulhaM
PROJECT: Fulham Night Time Economy & Licensing Study
What were MAKE asked to do?
Residents of Fulham Road, a popular night time destination in West London, had been increasingly vocal about the growing problem of crime and disorder, and in particular nuisance behaviour, linked to customers of licensed venues in their area. Most of these customers were not believed to be from the local area; indeed many residents had stopped using Fulham Road because of the change from village-style high street to alcohol-led night time party destination.
The local council, the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, asked MAKE to evidence any unreported crime and disorder and also to consult local residents and businesses on whether or not to introduce a Cumulative Impact Policy (CIP). This is a tool under the Licensing Act 2003 that helps locations resist the opening of new pubs, bars and clubs if crime and disorder is resulting from the ‘cumulative impact’ of too many existing licensed premises.
In order to introduce such a policy, a firm evidence base is required; otherwise there is the possibility of a costly legal challenge.
How did MAKE do it?
MAKE developed an observational research study that ran through the evening and night and a questionnaire was drafted for residents and businesses.
To carry out the observation, MAKE recruited a team of 10 researchers, trained them in observation techniques, and then deployed them over four nights in Fulham Road.
To carry out the questionnaire, MAKE used GIS mapping to create a catchment that included the proposed CIP zone and the vicinity beyond. We then mailed the questionnaire to all residential and business addresses in this area.
We brought both elements together in a report that was based purely on facts rather than interpretation or policy recommendation so that councillors could make a decision whether or not to introduce a cumulative impact policy (they did).
What happened next?
In addition to giving councillors the confidence to introduce a cumulative impact policy, overall crime and resident-reported nuisance has gone down.
What unique value did MAKE bring to this project?
As experts in cumulative impact, MAKE were able to predict how positive change may occur as a result of introducing such a policy. In this case the two venues most associated with problem behaviour subsequently changed their operational style. In one the existing owner has refurbished the premises to attract a new and more mature audience. And, because obtaining a new licence is now very difficult, the other venue has changed hands and a company wanting to open an upmarket food-led gastropub bought the licence. What was a problem venue has changed overnight. Even locals now use it! Since these two main problem venues have gone, their clientele are no longer attracted to the Fulham Road.