Recent years have seen a tightening of licensing laws and the subsequent closure of many London clubs and bars.

Mayor Sadiq Khan appointed lawyer Philip Kolvin QC last week as the new chair of the Night Time Commission, in an attempt to 'protect' and safeguard London's nightlife culture. This move comes after a number of prominent venues, such as Dance Tunnel, were forced to close as a result of tightening licensing laws.

Since 2008, London has seen 50% of its clubs and 40% of its live music venues close down. Given this, the Mayor's latest appointment seems to have arrived at a crucial point, with the city's night time economy finely balanced on the edge of a precipice.

Philip Kolvin is expected to work alongside London's first Night Czar Amy Lamé, who was appointed by the London Mayor back in November. His primary role will be to bring club owners, local authorities, stakeholders and the Metropolitan Police together, opening a dialogue and therefore preventing the closure of any more venues. Having already won over a number of hearts with his positive moves since taking office, Mr Khan has pledged to do all within his power to protect an industry that supports thousands of jobs and draws in visitors from across the world.

Philip Kolvin QC will begin his role on the 9th January 2017 and will undoubtedly play a big role in Mayor Khan's plan to transform the capital into a 24-hour city.