Sadiq Khan can now overrule councils on London venue licences as critics warn local decisions are being taken away

From Monday, Khan acquires the power to step in on licensing applications deemed strategically significant for London, overriding borough councils and issuing binding decisions. The new powers, granted by Andy Burnham's government, extend to large venues, live music, later opening hours, festivals and major events. Khan welcomed the change as the start of a "new era" for London nightlife.

London's nightlife sector generates more than £21 billion a year but has been hampered by patchy licensing rules that vary from borough to borough.

Khan also intends to establish a London-wide Strategic Licensing Policy, with a final version due before the year is out, following public consultation.

Critics argue the powers remove decision-making from local authorities, which previously held ultimate say over licensing within their own boroughs.