The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has launched a new initiative designed to revitalise and futureproof Scotland’s struggling night-time economy
.The Northern Lights manifesto, the NTIA says, is based around a number of “ambitious, urgent and actionable” recommendation that will “safeguard and transform” the sector. According to NTIA figures, the night-time economy generates £43.5 billion for the UK overall, while in Scotland specifically, it supports more than 137,000 jobs across over 12,600 businesses.
The NTIA has stressed that the sector is a vital asset to Scotland economically, culturally and socially, but points out that it is at serious risk due to various economic factors. Among these are numerous regulatory pressures, increased operational costs, an inadequate public transport network, and a lack of coherent national and local strategy, the organisation says.
In a statement, Mike Grieve, NTIA Scotland Chairperson, said: “Scotland’s night-time economy is not just about bars and clubs. It’s about the creative soul of our towns and cities. Without immediate and strategic government support, we risk losing the venues, voices and businesses that define Scotland’s global cultural identity. Northern Lights is a blueprint for meaningful action – and the time to act is now.”
Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA UK, added: “Across the world, cities are embracing nightlife as a key component of economic resilience and cultural diplomacy. Scotland must not be left behind. Northern Lights offers a forward-thinking, detailed and locally adaptable plan for national recovery. It is not just a wish list, it’s a working document for a sustainable future.”
In order to give the country’s night-time sector a boost, the NTIA has put forward six priority actions: the creation of a National Night Time Economy Strategy and Strategy Board; the appointment of a dedicated Minister for the Night-Time Economy; statutory duty for all local authorities to develop their own night-time economy strategies; establishment of Offices for Nightlife in major cities and regions; financial and regulatory reforms, such as business rates relief; and initiatives to enhance transport, safety, inclusion and late-night services.
Read the full manifesto here.
