HERE COMES THE NIGHT

In the years since the ‘big interruption’ that was COVID Governments have been keen to ensure the survival, then the regeneration and, ultimately, the reimagining of what has been called ‘the night-time economy’. Policies have traditionally been geared to policing and licensing night-time activities in attempts to reduce or control anti-social behaviour the scenes of which have fuelled social media and populate Google Images (and other search engine on-line photography.

In recent months however there has been a marked change in the focus of action. This week the Welsh Government has announced a package of measure to support live music venues. In Ireland, the Government has created numerous initiatives to enhance the quality of the night-time economy - including the appointment of a raft of Night-time Ambassadors and Project Officers. The Midlands Regional Enterprise board in Ireland have been more pro-active by organising a series of workshops for five of the regions urban centres: Mullingar, Longford, Tullamore, Athlone and Portlaoise. These events attended by representatives from local Chambers of Commerce, businesses, and local authorities amongst others.

Inspired by examples of good practice drawn from Turku (Finland), Ljubljana (Slovenia), and Linz (Austria) participants were invited to explore these towns and to emerge with a series of ideas and projects that could enhance the nigh-time economy both for the period from when the sun goes down until sunrise as well as addressing, what has become known as ‘The 5pm exodus’ - and looking at new activities that can enhance the appeal of a destination from the 5pm until 5am.