Christopher BarrettLondon night czar Amy Lamé has said she will stand down from her role at City Hall at the end of this month.
Appointed in 2016 by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, Lamé was tasked with “ensuring London thrives as a 24-hour city”, working in partnership with businesses, local authorities, the Metropolitan Police, Transport for London and communities across the capital.
It is currently unclear whether a replacement for Lamé will be appointed. She reportedly said it was the right time to “move on”.
Bristol’s night time economy advisor Carly Heath said Lamé had been an inspiration and a mentor: “As the UKs first night czar in a monstrously complicated political landscape, with 33 boroughs and a global pandemic Amy Lamé is an inspiration to the global night advocacy movement. Her infatigable dedication to Londoners at night will impact for generations
“Much of her work has been unseen, policy led, unglamorous, and she has dedicated her work to lifting others up before herself. She has carried it with grace and humility – often in the glare of disgusting commentary. I will forever be in awe of Amy’s ability to rise above for what’s right.”
Night Time Industries Association CEO Michael Kill said that during Lamé’s eight-year tenure there had been criticism but also several achievements: “Her work on women’s safety at night, and the establishment of enterprise zones, have been hugely beneficial for the sector.”
“The role of night czar has always been crucial, but also an enormous challenge, especially during one of the toughest trading periods for the night-time economy. Representing such a vast market in a capital city like London is no easy task. I wish Amy well in her future endeavours.”
“With the formation of the new Night Taskforce, I am optimistic that we are entering a new era. We now have the chance to rebuild London’s nightlife with a fresh perspective and stronger foundations.”