Action Plan: Your thoughts in action

One Soho Soho is a unique part of the t it has an international identity as a cros ities and energy of the people who live an Without order we cannot live in, work in, o pleasant experience and we will work with ense of belonging and a wide range of op e of the most exciting and colourful part uraging diversity in retail and protecting up dialogue between businesses and re he foundations for enterprise in Soho. Re e look after the heart of this city. We propo neration, and we will improve the public re Contents 1 Introduction 3 Foreword 7 One Soho 13 Order 21 Opportunity 27 Enterprise 35 Renewal: Our lasting legacy 41 One Soho, One City, One Action Plan 45 List of actions 52 Contact details

capital that has grown out of a rich s-cutting and cosmopolitan melting nd work here, which makes this area or visit Soho in enjoyment and peace. h the police and the Soho community pportunities in Soho that make even ts of the capital, if not the world, in Soho’s core businesses, promoting esidents, making the council more enewal: Our lasting legacy We will be ose real consultation with residents, ealm to make Soho accessible to all. Soho Boundary Soho is the area within the boundaries set by , , Shaftesbury Avenue, and Charing Cross Road (for the purpose of this Action Plan).

Featured Imagery 1 KINGLY COURT 2 SOHO HOTEL 3 TOTTENHAM 4 COURT ROAD 5 MARKET 6 GREAT MARLBOROUGH STREET

19 20 18 GREA OXFORD STREET TCH W CH TON RO Additional Streets OXFORD UT APE S ARI CIRCUS 1 ET O LITTLE MARLBOROUGH STREET LS H STRE S O N R EN G T 21 2 A LL SQUARE FOUBERT’S PLACE H O R M H C ILL EE I E L 3 ROS 3 AC T MARLBOROUGH COURT S L E T ET I E E R P T S STRE S 22 LA E S 4 AR SPL EL L T IE ST O 13 IS E CE N RL R G P A REET C ESTRE 5 UPPER JOHN STREET YL R AMILL O T O LAND ST NET A L ET A M D 6 UPPER JAMES STREET STREE BER RT D YSTRE OU EAN ET B LA 7 LOWER JOHN STREET R E R WI 12 ’S C T REET 23 T S D’A CK STR NNE ST ST A 8 LOWER JAMES STREET 10 2 R ROUGH G O WA E T E R LB R T REE E 9 SMITH’S COURT AR EET R I 11 C ST E D 14 H N K EAT M 6 O M R S 10 PORTLAND MEWS G UR EMA 24 DUFO O AT F TR N B R I S D T E 11 LIVONIA STREET T H E M ME UR’S 5 R T S A EET WS T 1 R 12 WARDOUR MEWS REE MOOR S T 15 4 S TR EET HA P E H L O CARN T REET 13 SHERATON STREET LL A TRE T S I P 2 C N KIN NS ST E GE 14 FLAXMAN COURT AB REET TO 3 REE S ST T P S D E E T Y T S 16 BROADWICK RE PL AR 15 DUCK LANE S T E TRE TRE T REET M S DCOM S TR R R E OL LY EE IL 16 TYLER’S COURT EG K ACE I NGLY C T LE RCHI OM 4 U R 17 ENT 1 X T WINNETT STREET ING BO K OUR IN T 18 SOHO STREET ST O G G N T LY R R E ST PETER STREE 19 FALCONBERG MEWS A EE C T RE OU P T R U ET 20 FALCONBERG COURT T R U REE B LT T P E R ENE E 17 KST I U 21 GOSLETT YARD A 6 D RT N LE E BE Y V ST A 22 ORANGE YARD L S RY A T RE NE R U 5 GR B LEICESTER EE S E E 23 WEDGEWOOD MEWS T T EA T T T SQUARE E E F E A N R T RE H 24 GREEK COURT E W ST S D E ST R IND W ER HER A GOL W RW QUA E 9 MI RC S 8 R A B L ICK S L ARD S Y TR T M R S A EET EE 7 HER H T WOO

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This document is available upon request in alternative formats, such as large print, Braille and audio, as well as in other languages. One Soho Soho Action Plan 1 Introduction

This action plan follows in the footsteps The Soho Action Plan intends to be a living of other area-based action plans for and working approach to neighbourhood parts of London’s West End. It builds improvement and you can still have your say on what’s already here, addresses issues and input into the priorities for your area. of importance and celebrates the best that Soho has to offer. Many of Soho’s You can check the website – residents and businesses have worked www.westminster.gov.uk/onesoho with Westminster officers to produce or email us at this document, which plots the future [email protected] of partnership working for Soho.

In the second half of 2006, we consulted on our draft Soho Action Plan and many people helped us to identify the things that are most important to them, the things they felt were missing and also areas where we needed to strengthen our commitment. The actions list has been reduced in this adopted version to ensure that all of the actions are related to your neighbourhood, and we have updated the information to make sure it is as current as it can be at the time of going to print. 2 Soho Action Plan One Soho Foreword Soho Action Plan 3 The Management of Foreword the Soho Action Plan

This adopted plan has been written with Not all of the actions are funded at present, Cllr Glenys Roberts , Lead Member for the Chris Best is the Chair of the Soho Caring the help of the Soho Contact Group but the West End Team will aim to find ways Soho Action Plan Agencies Forum and Chief Executive of Soho (a group of representatives from the local of funding the delivery of the actions from Housing Association. The forum that meets Soho community). Regular meetings will both within and outside of the council. This action plan represents the culmination once every two months has, over the past take place with the West End Team and a External funding is very important to all of of months of discussion and consultation nine years, become a vital networking and Soho Steering Group (made from the Soho our action plans and some actions will need with a focus group of residents, businesses support resource for all who attend from the Contact Group membership) to discuss to be funded solely from external sources. and traders, to set out a shared vision for statutory, caring and voluntary sector in and progress on projects, priorities, new actions Soho’s future. It also represents the views around Soho. The Housing Association has and funding. of many visitors to Soho, gathered during the many properties in the area and its priorities formal consultation in Autumn 2006. are to protect an already vibrant community, Implementing the actions will take time, with which includes children as well as older some actions being quicker to realise than Soho is a relatively small area of Westminster, people, by ensuring the provision of others. However, we want this plan to reflect but it remains unmatched in terms of its additional affordable housing. The council the needs of the community so the steering history, traditions and vibrant daily life. It was believes this is vital to a rounded community group will have the ability to prioritise and one of the first multicultural communities in and is always seeking ways to do this. amend actions according to the greatest the country and is one of the last central needs of Soho at the time. The life span London villages – with many families who Simon Quayle is Director of Shaftesbury of our West End action plans is normally have lived here over generations, as well PLC, who are long term investors in the area around five years, but each year we will tell as newcomers and tourists from all over the where they are hands-on managers of a wide you how we have done, and what we intend world who are intrigued by its lively reputation. range of Soho properties including shops, to do in each coming year. Soho is unique because although it has cafes, restaurants, offices and residential always enjoyed its bohemian associations, accommodation. Shaftesbury believes that it has also been a highly productive area. the chief ingredient for a successful future is As the traditional home of the film, theatre, the commitment to the area's prosperity and music and fashion industries it is overflowing effective management, which can only help with cultural resonance which must be residents as well as businesses. Successful safeguarded and encouraged. enterprises, new as well as traditional, are Soho is covered by a number licensing authority. The council's We would like to emphasise from the lifeblood of any area and it is the aim of of Westminster City Council policy as planning authority is the beginning that this document The challenge in drawing up a plan for the this action plan to make their success easier policy documents, including contained in The Unitary seeks to build on the policies the Unitary Development Plan, Development Plan (2007) and already set out, and should not future of such an exceptional area is to marry to deliver. the Licensing Policy and the associated Supplementary be misconstrued as contradictory all its interests. Everyone who responded to Soho Conservation Area Audit. Planning Guidance/ Documents. or seeking to change them. All of our consultation was aware of the need to Fiona Rhys Jenkins Bailey is Chair of In the event of any conflict these documents are available on preserve the best, address the worst and the Soho Society, which was started a The council has published a between those formal policy our website or can be requested maintain the ongoing vitality that is Soho. generation ago to represent both residents Statement of Licensing Policy documents and this action plan, through our One Stops. I am grateful to all who contributed and I and businesses in the area and in that time in accordance with the Licensing the formal policy documents shall Act 2003, setting out the policy take precedence. want to give a particular mention to those it has seen many changes. Fiona rightly of the council in its capacity as who have given us special help with this observes that today Soho is such a vibrant project and to outline their priorities. and dynamic area attracting such a wealth 4 Soho Action Plan Foreword Foreword Soho Action Plan 5

of visitors 24 hours a day, that this in itself, To sum up, it is clear from your responses whilst being one of its great assets can put that residents, businesses and visitors all strain on all aspects of local life. In particular have the same overall objective: that Soho Soho has witnessed many specialist and should house a healthy, happy community often family run shops disappearing over in a clean, crime free and sustainable the years and if this trend continues it will environment. As one consultee put it, change the whole nature of the community. Soho is a place where everyone should feel The Society welcomes one of the aims comfortable, knowing they can live and work of this plan – to encourage independent in an area that is not leaving its past behind, retailers into the area to stop Soho yet is evolving in a balanced and healthy becoming just another uniform UK way into the most fantastic neighbourhood city centre. in London.

Jane Standing is Chief Executive Officer This action plan endeavours to deliver of Kairos in Soho (KiS), a community exactly this. It will sit alongside the other development organisation with premises plans for the West End, showing the in both a residential block and a business commitment of the council and its partners centre. It is busy during the daytime and to deliver a safe Soho with a thriving local evenings, catering especially for the economy, improved opportunities for the significant numbers of lesbian, gay, bisexual whole community, and an enjoyable and transgender (LGBT) people who have environment that befits Soho’s status as one lived in and been drawn to the area for of the number one destinations in London. almost as long as it has existed. In the words of Jane, KiS is committed to a Cllr Danny Chalkley , Cabinet Member for greater understanding of LGBT life and Economic Development and Transport, and family, as well as to working together across I are grateful to everyone who has worked communities to address the challenges to achieve these shared aspirations. The facing Soho so as to create opportunities challenge is now to deliver the vision. All for all. Kairos in Soho's commitment to of us look forward to working in continued community engagement, services and partnership with the Soho Action Plan volunteering across race, gender, disability Steering Group to achieve this. We would age and difference has been integral to the still like to hear from people on their views development of this plan and echoes the about Soho so if you would like to know aim of Westminster City Council in working more about the Steering Group or any other with marginalised communities as a vital aspect of the plan, please contact us (details part of civic renewal. on 52). One Soho Soho Action Plan 7

Soho is a unique part of the capital that has grown out of a rich cultural and commercial heritage. Whilst it has One an international identity as a cross-cutting and cosmopolitan melting pot, Soho thrives thanks to the personalities and energy of the people who live and work Soho here, which makes this area a truly contemporary community.

Kingly Court Just off (ref 1 on map) 8 Soho Action Plan One Soho One Soho Soho Action Plan 9 What is your vision for Soho?

The public consultation supported We will therefore support the residential Soho people centre for the LGBT community, was the view that Soho is a unique and community, which has always been at the Some of Soho’s residents were born here highlighted in a consultation exercise by wonderful place. It has a remarkable heart of Soho’s success. We will encourage and, having lived all their lives here, have Kairos in Soho (KiS) in the preparation for past, but it needs a sustainable future. those businesses and visitors who take collected a valuable record of Soho life. this action plan. Support for a feasibility Residents should enjoy living here. account of the needs of residents. At the The Soho Society has been the guardian study for this centre was very strong in the Workers should enjoy working here. same time, we will improve the local of local history since the 1960s and exists results of the public consultation. KiS has Responsible businesses should thrive. environment and local amenities for the to represent the people of Soho. One of our greatly assisted us in identifying various Visitors should want to come back. benefit of everyone who comes to Soho. aims is to found a virtual museum to display needs, and we will continue to work with this for the benefit of residents and visitors. them to support initiatives that address the It’s not always like that now, but that Respect and cooperation are the hallmarks particular needs of the LGBT community. is our aim. of One Soho - help us to make it happen! We will provide community services for residents young and old, restoring the Westminster Primary Care Trust (PCT) famous Marshall Street Baths as a local provides a wide range of community health leisure centre, offering swimming and other services in Soho. These include the Soho recreational pursuits and encouraging small NHS Walk-in Centre, Soho Centre for Health businesses whilst preserving the markets and Care, the Great Chapel Medical Centre, and specialist shops that are unique to General Practitioners, Dentists and other this area. services for people who live, work and visit Soho. The centre also provides a full range Local people tell us it is important to find of medical services for homeless people. ways of providing new, accessible community In order to promote health, the PCT has facilities. W e will undertake an audit of Soho’s worked with local people in developing a current community facilities and work with Healthy Soho Action Plan that aims to landowners and statutory services to ensure improve the health and wellbeing of that the need for further community facilities is the community. met in a co-ordinated way.

It is estimated that 7-10% 1 of the residential population is lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgender (LGBT). Soho is an important LGBT residential and visitor destination on a London-wide, as well as a national and international level. This is because it is a place where the LGBT community feels welcome and safe, although this is not always the case. The lack of specific facilities, such as a London community

1 Kairos in Soho 10 Soho Action Plan One Soho One Soho Soho Action Plan 11

Younger Soho Make a positive contribution: increased Older Soho For a more detailed look at the history of There is a need for safe, accessible play- engagement in positive activities; increased Westminster’s Cabinet approved the Every Soho and the experience of its residents, space for children in Soho. We are working involvement in citizenship and volunteering Older Person Matters agenda (EOPM) in businesses and faith groups, please visit towards the Government’s five outcomes and a reduction in anti-social/offending April 2007, which aims to support older www.sohosociety.org.uk in Every Child Matters 2 through the behaviour committed by young people. residents to live longer, in good health and or development of Soho’s integrated Children’s independence as far as possible. We will www.westminster.gov.uk/onesoho Centre. The Children and Young People’s Achieve economic well-being: increased do this in a number of ways, by continuing Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) details the proportion of young people achieving Level to work closely with the PCT in Soho to following priorities as agreed in 2006 2/3 qualifications by age 19; better levels of deliver more preventative services to keep (published in detail in the Children and Young education, employment and training among people active and healthy, for example. People’s Plan 2006-09). These priorities are: young mothers, young offenders and young We acknowledge the important role older people with Special Educational Needs/ people play and we want to promote inter- Be healthy: better uptake of childhood Emotional Behaviour Disorders and generational activities in Soho in recognition immunisations; improved emotional well increased numbers of parents entering the of that. We will expand the range of activities being; reduction in childhood obesity; job market. available at Age Concern’s Covent Garden reduction in sexually unsafe behaviour and Day Centre and continue to work with and reduced use of alcohol and drugs. Through delivery of these we will provide a support the unique and valuable role played broader range of services for parents, pupils by Westminster Advocacy Service for Stay safe: increased safety and feelings of and the wider community at Soho Parish Senior Residents. safety among children and young people; School. We are committed to developing better protection for children who have quality early years services and our aim is to To find out more about this scheme, visit: suffered/ are at risk of significant harm to continue this level of support throughout a www.westminster.gov.uk/seniorpassport enable them to live safely with their families resident’s life. and improved security when children are Learning opportunities for older people placed away from home. We will promote the development of a will increase, with £100K being invested sustainable community by seeking affordable borough-wide at existing day care centres Enjoy and achieve: improved education housing schemes, promoting life-time including Covent Garden. Understanding attainment at Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4; homes and encouraging the retention and different benefits systems can be complex. improved attainment for looked after children improvement of existing residential stock to We will make sure that the new Pensions and other under-achieving groups; reduction encourage Soho’s children to stay as they Joint Visiting Team offer help and support in exclusions and unauthorised absensce in grow older. to those that need it and get in contact with secondary schools and improved inclusion all older people in Soho. Additionally, we will and attainment of vulnerable children. promote volunteering opportunities across all communities in partnership with Soho Caring Agencies Forum and their Time Bank.

2 www.everychildmatters.gov.uk – Bringing together all services for children and young people to improve outcomes for children and young people, led by local authorities. Order Soho Action Plan 13

Without order we cannot live in, work in, or visit Soho in enjoyment and peace. We want being in Soho to be a safe and Order pleasant experience and we will work with the police and the Soho community to achieve this.

Soho Hotel 4 Richmond Mews (ref 2 on map) 14 Soho Action Plan Order Order Soho Action Plan 15 Crime and safety

Although Soho is very safe compared to CivicWatch is the process by which the drink premises in this area, or which would alleviate noise nuisance where we can by other major city centres (including other issues discussed in more detail below will intensify their use. adjusting our own services. parts of London), people tell us that at be managed. certain times and in some places it feels Westminster has consulted on its revised uncomfortable, threatening and Soho is currently covered by a Dispersal Licensing Policy Statement and this will be unwelcoming. Zone. Using this power, drug dealers and published in January 2008, following the users can be dispersed outside of the publication of central government’s Revised As part of our commitment to keep boundary of the zone. The zone is Guidance. Westminster has recently Westminster safe, the council extended designated under anti-social behaviour produced draft Supplementary Planning the CivicWatch process to include the legislation, is reviewed every six months Guidance (SPG) and UDP policies TACE Soho area in July 2006. CivicWatch is a and is not intended to be a permanent tool. 8-10 for entertainment uses, covering 33 partnership project linking in the various Community feedback tells us that this areas, including Soho. This guidance council departments with the police, fire method of combating drug misuse in Soho addresses the character and function, brigade and local communities, working and the West End has worked well, and amenity and local environment and provides together to resolve concerns around crime, with the police we intend to continue using detailed guidance for 10 sub areas within anti-social behaviour and community safety. Dispersal Zones and other tactics of overt Soho. This is being re-drafted for formal The Soho area is covered by a local Safer and covert policing to target crime where adoption following the public consultation Neighbourhoods team, which provides appropriate. in 2006. extra police dedicated to tackling community concerns. A Street Drinking Control Area has been in Some aspects of Soho’s vibrant night-time operation in Soho and across Westminster economy have a negative effect on Soho’s The process brings with it a level of since October 2004. This discretionary residents and businesses. Noise from late- accountability ensuring that the relevant power does not outlaw drinking on the night traffic, air conditioning units, patrons partner agency takes responsibility for street, but enables the police to ask people of licensed premises and waste and bottle delivery on the issues identified. These not to drink on the street if they are deemed recycling collections have been highlighted priorities are not only those driven centrally to be acting in an anti-social way, or are during consultation, and we will work with by crime figures, but also those identified by likely to do so. local residents to identify specific problem the community. A survey of residents and areas. We recognise that ambient noise businesses is carried out on a quarterly basis Soho is part of Westminster’s West End levels in many parts of the city are above and the results fed into the overall strategy. ‘Stress Area’, for further information read our desirable levels. As announced as part of In addition, the team is working towards Statement of Licensing Policy 7 January our 18 One City initiatives in March 2007, establishing a neighbourhood ward panel 2005, sub-section 2.4. The number of we are committed to developing a long-term chaired by local residents who will help licensed premises in this area is regarded as strategy to reduce ambient noise levels inform the police and CivicWatch about the having reached saturation point so there is a where they are excessive through a issues most affecting them. The teams will policy of generally not granting entertainment combination of licensing, regulatory and be accountable to this group for ensuring licences which would allow new pubs, bars, enforcement powers. While this work takes the successful delivery of identified priorities. dance premises or take-away hot food and place, council departments will work to 16 Soho Action Plan One Soho Order Soho Action Plan 17

“Clipping” 3 disturbs the peace for residents LGBT community and other partners to encourage healthier lifestyles and support Following the recommendations of an and other law-abiding people as well as combat this, and we will relaunch a third the whole community to tackle drug and independent report, we have moved from causing problems for unsuspecting visitors party reporting scheme, where victims can alcohol use and its effects. providing services and assessments on to Soho. City Guardians have distributed report such crimes safely. the streets to building based provision. warning leaflets to potential customers to During 2005, we launched a programme The council funds a dedicated Metropolitan deter them from entering premises and Drug dealing and related activity have been to make Westminster a ‘Wireless City’. A Police Team (located within their Safer accepting offers on street. The leaflet problems in some parts of Soho. With our current pilot scheme allows CCTV cameras Streets Homelessness Unit) to work with the distribution and arrests have reduced partners in the health service and police, to operate over a wireless network in parts buildings based services and ensure that the reported crime dramatically and this will we have developed services for drug users of Soho. We will use these to observe and delicate balance between enforcement and continue until we can legislate against those to divert them away from drug use and monitor emerging areas of criminal activity, the social care agenda is maintained. Street responsible. Considerable efforts from both other possible criminal offences. A Drugs as well as existing hotspots, in order to take drinking schools are targeted with the aim the Premises Licensing and Planning Intervention Programme has been developed appropriate enforcement action. of encouraging people to accept services Enforcement teams have delivered a large to provide a specialised day programme for aiming to considerably reduce the number reduction in the number of clipping offenders involved in substance misuse, and Aggressive begging has been tackled quite of people sleeping rough in the area. premises, and we are pursuing legislation includes counselling and relapse prevention. successfully in the past with the use of anti- under the London Local Authorities Bill We will continue to target individuals on social behaviour orders (ASBOs) and The last few years have seen a rise in the to make these businesses illegal. We will arrest and leaving custody, in partnership with intensive enforcement. The number of number of agents who stop people on the continue to work with the police and other NHS prescribing and stabilisation services. beggars has reduced significantly across street and ask for charitable contributions. agencies to negate the impact of on-street Westminster over the last two years since Pending the Charities Act being brought into clipping which affects our residents in their The Dispersal Zone has provided the the council and the police, supported by a full force, Westminster is seeking interim homes, and will close down illegal clip joints opportunity to disrupt and enforce against Home Office Trailblazing grant, have measures in the form of a borough-wide where possible. known drug dealers and users. In some specifically targeted street begging. Cash scheme that has been successful in other areas, there are problems with discarded point begging has specifically been tackled London boroughs. Agencies are requested Hate crime (which includes faith, hypodermic needles. We will continue to with some success, with many now covered to follow guidelines of conduct and are homophobic, transgender, racially motivated tackle this by expanding buildings based by CCTV, which we may expand through our provided with locations where they can and and repeat victim crime) is a recognised services for drug users in hostels, existing wireless network. The police are signed up can't carry out their work. Our street problem in Soho. Data from the Metropolitan treatment centres and pharmacies so that to respond ‘soonest’ to such begging licensing enforcement team is undertaking Police for January 2006 - 2007 suggests the full range of services available to the incidents: their second highest response this work. that on average hate crime occurs a total of end drug user can be targeted and provided level (after ‘immediate’ for urgent calls). In 2.25 times per calendar month in the Soho at each location. Evidence tells us this is 2006 and again in April 2007, we repeated The council and other statutory bodies have Metropolitan Police area. Anecdotal evidence already bringing results, with Westminster our Killing with Kindness campaign, worked hard over the last few years to suggests that this figure could be much residents accessing treatment at a rate of educating the public about the consequences educate the public about the dangers of higher and that it is under reported, 13% more than expected. of giving to beggars. The aim was to divert illegal mini-cabs. However, they still exist in particularly in respect of homophobic money into established services for the West End and Soho is no exception. offences. We recognise that the LGBT Services are integrated with alcohol misuse homeless people, to fund treatment and We will work in partnership with Transport community is often reluctant to report violent assessments, as part of our joint alcohol support, and to considerably reduce overall for London (TfL) to promote the Safer Travel offences for many reasons, including fear strategy; we will continue to support families the number of people sleeping rough in at Night campaign and will also work with of reprisal. We will work with the police, the and friends living in Soho, so that they can the area. licensed mini-cab companies to establish the

3 “Clipping” can be explained as obtaining money by deception, through the suggestion of sexual services. This can be either on-street or in premises. 18 Soho Action Plan One Soho Order Soho Action Plan 19

provision of an easily recognisable pick-up The police and the City Guardians have Keeping the streets We conducted extensive research when our point, similar to a taxi stand. Provision of a worked together on an initiative for the cleansing services contract was tendered LGBT and women-friendly cab service has prevention of cycle theft, where bicycles clean and clear in September 2003, and it is clear that we also been suggested during consultation. are marked and logged onto a database for The provision of an attractive and safe have made important progress with rubbish Additionally, we have been using CCTV easy identification in case of theft. There are environment is of paramount importance collection in Soho. The local community tell from SMART cars to enforce against illegal also a large number of bicycles clamped to to both residents and businesses in Soho. us that Soho is generally clean and we mini-cabs and we will continue to do so, posts and private railings throughout the The community tells us that despite general recently consulted widely on waste collection along with concerted, targeted campaigns West End and Soho, causing an obstruction. high satisfaction levels, some of Soho’s times as part of the Bags off the Street of enforcement until the Wireless City roll-out We will continue with anti-theft initiatives and streets are in need of improvement, initiative; collection times have been is complete. As part of this, many of the look to install on-street cycle stands where particularly for those with reduced mobility amended in accordance with the results. most challenging streets (Glasshouse, possible as well as encouraging businesses or small children. We are keen to work with Despite this, we know there are some areas Archer, Sherwood, Denmark, Old Compton, to do the same in their car parks. landowners, businesses and residents to find we could improve on such as looking at Bateman, as examples) will be enforced by partnership funding in order to establish a where we need narrower vehicles to access cameras, which will be in operation by programme of street scene improvements narrow streets. October 2008. throughout Soho. For more on this, please see the Renewal section. Despite the pressures on this busy area, There are still some unlicensed sex shops there is generally a high standard of in Soho and officers from the Premises Soho’s streets are narrow leaving little cleanliness but residents and visitors in Soho Licensing Inspectorate routinely monitor this room for the increasing number of users are concerned about the amount of street activity. Their work has led to many being competing for space. It is our intention to fouling. Urination on the street is common, closed down and this will continue until all review and rationalise all street signage, not only in out-of-the-way corners. City unlicensed premises have been closed. bollards and planters, A-boards and other Guardians will work with police to tackle In five years, we have reduced the number potential obstructions, in line with our individuals who are responsible. We will look of unlicensed sex shops from 52 to 11. public-realm strategy. When improvements at treating the street surfaces to combat the During 2006/2007, three unlicensed shops to public space are being considered, smell and investigate better lighting and were closed and no new premises opened. whether the land is public or privately signage to public toilets. We will work with The sale value of the material seized is the owned, the needs of people with disabilities pubs and clubs to encourage patrons to equivalent of £741,775 not entering the will be taken fully into account. This will use toilets before they leave the premises, as illegal economy. Forty-nine raids have been include the removal of barriers such as steps well as promoting the creation of accessible undertaken and a total of 29,671 items of and improving way-finding and orientation toilets in licensed premises where none exist. unclassified material (videos/DVDs) has by installing good signage and lighting. been seized from these premises. This Westminster is seeking legislation to control figure represents the highest seizure of hand-held signboards where they affect unclassified material since we undertook this visual amenity and/or public safety and work seven years ago, and we have pursued cause an obstruction. prosecutions against 49 people as a result of these raids. Opportunity Soho Action Plan 21

The sense of belonging and wide range of opportunities in Soho make even visitors feel at home. This makes it one of the Opportunity most exciting and colourful parts of the capital, if not the world, in which to live and work.

Soho Square (ref 3 on map) 22 Soho Action Plan Opportunity Opportunity Soho Action Plan 23 Opportunity

Part of the One City vision is to increase a visible support outside the school when The cultural community within Soho is We will continue to work with community opportunity for Westminster’s the children are entering and leaving. keen to contribute to local education. organisations and support community communities. These opportunities are For example, The Photographers’ Gallery festivals. There are some churches and faith wide-ranging and affect a number of Parents and teachers have expressed great (moving to Soho in 2009) will re-write its organisations in Soho that play important our service delivery areas. concern about the sex-related premises that education strategy and we encourage the support roles within the community and we are adjacent to Soho Parish Primary School. community to give their input. will continue to work with these Education The council has encouraged these premises organisations. Similarly, the Soho Society Educational establishments in Soho include: not to open at times when children are Cultural services actively engages all local community Westminster Kingsway College (WKC), Soho entering or leaving the school. The City We provide support via the Westminster members of all ages, organising many Parish Primary School, the Westminster Guardians are monitoring the situation, but City Council Arts Liaison Service and other community events and is renowned for the Adult Education Service (WAES), and the parents and residents are still concerned avenues to promote the arts within Soho. annual Soho Festival, a true community London College of Beauty Therapy. Soho about their presence. We will continue to Soho contains several independently owned event since 1973. Soho Pride celebrated Parish School ran a campaign during seek legislation to enable the council to shut art galleries and a high concentration of its 5th year in 2007, consisting of market 2006/07 to raise funds to secure a long-term down hostess/near-beer bars. In the resident artists. We want to improve cultural stalls, drinks, food, and dancing on the lease on two floors of 13-14 Archer Street, meantime we are looking at ways of using and community benefits when considering streets. The council will work to improve its adjacent to the school. Room to Grow Bluetooth technology to deter potential local redevelopment opportunities, by management of these events. aimed to increase physical education space customers from entering. encouraging public art programmes as part by 116%, classroom space by 27% and of any new developments as well as looking We will also continue to work with art community use by 100%. They have been Westminster Kingsway College (WKC) is a into using derelict sites as temporary homes galleries and theatres in the area, such as successful in securing £1.5m needed to college of further education and a strategic for artworks. We see public art programmes The Photographers’ Gallery, the Soho expand their community offer. WAES will be partner of Westminster City Council in as an opportunity for Soho’s communities Theatre and Writers’ Centre, and Shared looking into finding suitable, accessible meeting the educational needs of the to come together and be creative. We also Experience Theatre Company. We will ensure premises in Soho that are fit for the future. residents and employers of Westminster. see them as a chance to promote positive that the concerns of these establishments The Soho Action Plan will support both At its Peter Street Centre, WKC provides images of everyday Soho life, of its residents, are understood and addressed in the context WAES and the school by encouraging the English programmes for speakers of other workers and communities. We recognise of the Soho Action Plan where possible. whole community to work with them and languages (ESOL), for 1,500 students per that positive and realistic images of the support their work. year, and vocational programmes for the LGBT community in particular are rare, creative industries sector. We will continue despite Soho’s significant LGBT presence. We have recently completed a School Travel to support WKC and its work, focusing With this in mind we would look to Plan for Soho Parish Primary School. There especially on the creative industries so encourage art from all of Soho’s community. is scope for improving the traffic situation on important to Soho’s local economy. In Advice on proposals for new public art in where drivers often particular, we will work with WKC as it seeks Westminster is provided by the Public Art approach the top end by the school too to improve its current site, together with Advisory Panel, and in the document Public quickly. The signage needs to be improved other adjacent sites around Berwick Street. Art in Westminster. and City Guardians have already begun work in the school to help educate children about There is also a thriving live music and jazz the dangers of the road, as well as providing scene in Soho which we talk of more in our Enterprise section. 24 Soho Action Plan Opportunity Opportunity Soho Action Plan 25

Healthy Soho Westminster will be supporting the PCT’s delivery of the Healthy Soho Action Plan and, as well as delivering improved services for older residents, we will work with the PCT to expand the range of preventative services available to residents in Soho so that the health of the whole community is improved. Pre-empting the Government’s expectations in the White Paper ‘Our Health, Our Care, Our Say’, we deliver services targeted at meeting the needs of Soho’s communities jointly so that residents are able to access the full range of health and community based services as seamlessly as possible. We will continue to monitor the effectiveness of services provided in other areas, with a view to introducing new and appropriate ways of supporting improved health and wellbeing in the Soho community. This could include, for example, GP Exercise Referrals for those with chronic conditions associated with poor fitness. Enterprise Soho Action Plan 27

Encouraging diversity in retail and protecting Soho’s core businesses, promoting all that Soho has to offer and Enterprise opening up dialogue between businesses and residents, making the council more business-friendly; we want these to be the foundations for enterprise in Soho.

Meard Street View towards (ref 4 on map) 28 Soho Action Plan Enterprise Enterprise Soho Action Plan 29 Encouraging enterprise will be a top priority

Soho offers a dynamic mix of uses, all of that are under commercial pressure. We We want to acknowledge where there has group, or perhaps a forum, where local which contribute to the area’s distinctive have already begun this process with our been a change or mix in business use and views and issues can be discussed. character. Supporting Soho’s vibrant Savile Row Strategic Group. The council, ensure that we keep up with those changes. economy in a way that recognises its in partnership with private landowners and For example, considering the creation of Historically, Soho has always attracted contribution to London as a whole, will be small business owners, will look into ways additional loading bays in areas where the musicians and today Soho has a buzzing one of the central challenges as we deliver to attract and retain independent businesses business mix has changed recently, such live jazz and blues scene. This scene is the Soho Action Plan. We are keen not to in Soho. We will apply this particularly to the as Richmond Mews. supported by popular venues such as focus solely on the big names and the Berwick Street area, which has seen a Ronnie Scott’s on , Jazz After obvious points of interest – such as Soho’s decline in business and we will explore ways We are always open to suggestions for Dark on , and the Jazz Club well-known bars, clubs, and restaurants – of promoting it and increasing its economic making parking arrangements more on . We will work with our but also to work with small businesses sustainability. accessible. We have recently increased partners to promote this as an aspect of to promote the area’s mix and history. the maximum stay period on meters from Soho’s historic inheritance. Live music is We want to become more business friendly, two hours to four to assist Soho’s visitors. an important part of entertainment in Soho Soho remains an important location for and the reliance on delivery vehicles for The parking permit re-engineering review will and this is celebrated annually with the City the headquarters of many national and many businesses in Soho is paramount. look into all parking permits and will include Showcase www.cityshowcase.co.uk . international businesses such as advertising, The Transportation and Parking departments consideration of provisions for tradesmen This has been hosted in Soho during a and the significant number of office premises will continue to investigate loading and contractors. Parking for the Berwick week in June since 2003. New live acts in the area ensures that there is a large restrictions within certain streets of Soho, Street market traders will be considered. get a chance to perform in public and daytime population. Film and media particularly relating to deliveries while We recognise that drivers of vehicles used attend lectures. production studios are often 24 hour balancing the need to protect residential by disabled people, including minibuses operations, meaning that staff can be amenity and minimise noise during adapted to transport wheelchairs, need to The modern sex industry has existed in entering or leaving Soho at any time of the unsociable hours. We also hope to work be able to pick up and drop off passengers, Soho for over 50 years. By the end of the day or night. We will continue to work with with local businesses in deriving the most and we will work on making this possible. 1960s Soho’s well-established sex-related the media and creative industries so that effective logistics for deliveries. We are We are also reviewing provision for premises included film clubs, strip joints their needs and issues, such as safety for working with businesses and the freight motorcycle and bicycle parking in Soho and and mail order and retail shops. Today the staff late at night, are understood and met. industry to improve loading/unloading the West End following the increase in the council is highly active in driving out illegal Soho has the greatest concentration of facilities and have been instrumental in Congestion Charge and increased levels trade within the industry and this will creative industries in the UK and we are developing a London-wide loading/unloading of correspondence relating to parking continue. Central Government’s proposals looking at ways to offer more protection to code of practice. In addition, through the space availability. to decriminalise small brothels will be closely these types of businesses. We are doing this Clear Zone Partnership, we are discussing monitored by our Planning Department to by revising our Planning and Economic the possibility of introducing a delivery Entertainment ensure that their impact does not result in Development polices as part of the emerging consolidation scheme. Soho could be used There is a vast array of entertainment on either nuisance to the local community or Local Development Framework and revised as a pilot area for such an initiative and, as offer in Soho and for decades the area has loss of permanent residential housing stock. Economic Development Strategy. the boundary of the Clear Zone is currently been a top food and drink destination. The being revised, there is the potential to restaurants are mainly independently owned As part of the One City programme, we are incorporate Soho within the Clear Zone. and some restaurant owners have told us looking to sustain local community retailers that there is a need for a local restaurant 30 Soho Action Plan Enterprise Enterprise Soho Action Plan 31

Soho’s businesses Soho provides a unique and popular goods and service providers, such as market’s success. We have been working Soho is the centre of the film, video, shopping experience. In its recent history, butchers, cobblers and bakers, back into towards the improvement of Berwick Street and publishing industry – being home to Soho was famous for its cosmopolitan food the area. We will look into establishing a market during 2007, and have implemented both multinational and independent shops. was home to butchers Soho-focused independent retail association. pedestrian signing from major routes, filled businesses – as well as the television and such as Slater Cook and Bisney and Jones, the remaining vacancies and the market has film post-production industry. The area is while Randall and Aubin was a butchers and Today, the Carnaby Street shopping district recently celebrated success with Ian Keene criss-crossed underground with the fibre delicatessen. housed is a thriving area packed with a range of being awarded Westminster Market Trader of Sohonet and at rooftop level by free Richard’s, a famous fish shop and today is shops. However, the full potential of the of the Year 2007. space communications laser beams. home to many restaurants, bars and clubs entrance to Carnaby Street via Great We will endeavour to work more closely with retaining a number of long standing Marlborough Street is unfulfilled. A pedestrian We will investigate a longer-term vision for media organisations and will support any patisseries, cafes and the Prince Edward approaching from Great Marlborough Street the market and explore initiatives that could Soho-focused media industry association theatre. We will actively promote key is confronted by a dominating motorcycle help it to flourish; there has been a or forum to work with us in identifying and shopping destinations across the whole bay and aesthetically poor entrances to the suggestion for developing a farmer’s market, addressing issues for this important sector. range of Soho’s shopping areas, for example public lavatories. As this is an important for instance. It has also been suggested that Berwick Street’s music and rag trade shops, area, alongside buildings and streets of a waste-handling facility be installed for Soho is also home to 01zero-one, the Newburgh Street’s cutting-edge fashion historical significance, upgrading the street Berwick Street market, including a rotary Creative Learning Lab operated by shops and the tailoring industry (for more scene would be considered a high priority. waste compactor and a cardboard baler; Westminster Kingsway College. 01zero-one information please read Bespoke Tailoring in The council will work with landowners, which would enable recycling for the market offers vocational and short-course London’s West End – March 2006). Berwick including Shaftesbury PLC, to make traders’ waste. At present, waste from the programmes for the creative industries Street, with its market and characteristic improvements to this part of Soho. market is taken to the Dufour’s Place street- sector as well as providing well-equipped small retailers and cloth shops, will be cleansing depot and deposited in a skip meeting space, which is a valuable resource encouraged to become Soho’s local high Berwick Street market was historically compactor. Alongside this, we will consider for businesses and community groups street with shops sustained by the local renowned for its quality fruit and vegetables, implications for Rupert Street market, which in Soho. We will support WKC’s efforts community. bread, fish, cheese, spices and flowers. was also celebrated historically for its quality to increase the range and number of However, there is a perception that recently, fresh foods. educational and training programmes In the face of great adversity, partly due both the area and the market have been focused on the creative sector. to escalating rents and property values, deteriorating in quality and character. a surprising number of specialist shops Business benefits for the market traders Soho is an internationally recognised focus still thrive in Soho. We want to ensure the could be looked at as part of a regeneration for gay economic and community activity. continued success of these shops and of the Berwick Street area, which is being We would like to work further with such boutiques. Whilst we have very limited guided by the Berwick Street community. businesses to ensure their needs and issues powers to protect smaller businesses, we For example, market traders have highlighted are understood. We would also like to will work with landlords as part of this action the lack of electric points, washing facilities encourage a greater range of gay businesses , plan to ensure that everything possible is and toilets. A lack of signage, parking thereby providing a wider variety of choice done to retain and enhance the Soho provision, stall design, variety and the for local residents as well as visitors. shopping experience. It is envisaged that an penalty-points system have also been initiative like this will also encourage local identified as major impediments to the 32 Soho Action Plan Enterprise Enterprise Soho Action Plan 33

We will look into initiatives that, wherever possible, would ensure vacant premises are turned around quickly for use. The opportunities provided by such premises could be used to bring services back into the local area and, in some circumstances, return upper storeys to proper residential use. We will investigate the flexibility of leasing arrangements with landlords, perhaps using some vacant premises as temporary art space.

Since 2006, it has been mandatory for those applying for planning consent to provide an access statement that will demonstrate how access for disabled people is going to be achieved. We will work with applicants to make the most of this opportunity, and examine ways to match improved access to buildings with improved access to the approaches to the building, where these are in the public realm. Renewal: Our lasting legacy Soho Action Plan 35

We will be judged by future generations on how we look after the heart of this city. We propose real consultation with residents, businesses and workers in areas of regeneration, and we will improve the public realm to make Soho accessible to all.

Renewal: Our lasting

Berwick Street market legacy (ref 5 on map) 36 Soho Action Plan Renewal Renewal: Our lasting legacy Soho Action Plan 37 Our lasting legacy

Public realm City Council is seeking to minimise the stands have been installed around the area Square – are small but vital components of The architecture, historical street patterns impact of the development and to ensure in recent years and the police have carried Soho’s life. While there is scope for and spaces of Soho are important assets. that proper provision is made to mitigate out bike marking schemes to reduce theft. improving these spaces and increasing We have adopted the Soho Conservation disturbances. We will continue to lobby for One solution to the cycle parking shortage access to them for disabled people, we Area Audit, which highlights the area’s this. The council will also continue to lobby would be to erect stands in unused vehicle would not want to change their function or architectural merits. to minimise adverse townscape and bays on the carriageway and this is being role. Additional maintenance measures, such construction impacts arising from the long investigated. as public art programmes and lighting, We agree with the many responses during term Crossrail 2 proposal (whose proposed would augment the attractiveness of these the consultation telling us that some of route runs from Victoria Station to Kings Go Green and Sustainable spaces. The Open Spaces Strategy has now Soho’s physical environment is in need of Cross station). been adopted and captures works in public Communities open spaces, which is part of the previously improvement. We will carry out an audit to During the consultation in 2006, many look at options for improving the lighting Soho and Covent Garden are particularly mentioned WBAP. We will look at enhancing difficult for bicycle access due to narrow people told us it is important to do more to Golden Square and Soho Square and and footways, do away with non-functioning improve environmental sustainability in Soho. street furniture, and to look at where we streets and one-way streets. These result in encourage partnership-working with local people ignoring one-way signs and cycling The council has established a ‘Go Green groups on improvement to open spaces, could install electric vehicle charging points, Board’ and, in February 2007, committed cycle stands and recycling points, to the wrong way so the number of accidents such as Soho Green’s ‘Artshed’ toilet at is above average. to drive improvements to the city’s overall St Anne's Gardens. encourage a greener Soho. We will consider environmental performance, recover its the streetscape for vehicles and pedestrians Some cycle routes were installed in the area previous pre-eminence as an exemplary to ascertain the best use of the urban space. ‘green authority’, and contribute to Enforcement activity We will carry out an access audit of Soho as part of the London Cycle Network, with Westminster has pursued compulsory a few contra-flow cycle lanes to improve combating climate change. This is to identify where areas can be made more particularly important when looking to purchase action in respect of ten mixed open and welcoming for disabled people. access. Despite this, most routes are still commercial/ residential buildings which were very circuitous and difficult to follow. The improve existing areas of the city and here Beak, Kingly and Warwick Streets have been in Soho developments will follow our being used as walk-up prostitutes’ flats in identified as in need of physical improvement contra-flow lanes add to street clutter, are recent years in and around the Berwick difficult to maintain and are unattractive. emerging Sustainable Communities agenda for some time. Some simple solutions could as well as the Westminster Biodiversity Street area. The purpose of this action had be applied here, for example rationalising been two-fold; to improve the condition of Currently there are two planned strategic Action Plan (WBAP). We can look towards and improving the footways and raised including an integrated set of proposals to the worst of the 60 or so houses in Soho tables to make access more welcoming cycle routes through the area, which are used in this way and to return the parts of being processed (Routes 6 and 39). If improve sustainability over the life of this plan for pedestrians at cross points. by conducting a green audit of Soho, which these houses intended for residential use to approved, these will be part of the London this purpose. We will continue to implement Cycle Network Plus (LCN+) which TfL aims would look at ways of improving Soho’s If Crossrail 1 (whose proposed east/west environmental sustainability in terms of its this programme, which is aimed at building route runs south of Oxford Street) proceeds, to complete by 2010.The majority of TfL’s sustainable communities and ensuring that grant for cycling is allocated to LCN+ routes. buildings and functions – a particular the impact will be felt in the north-eastern challenge in a conservation area made up residential stock is preserved. Running part of Soho. The construction of Crossrail 1 of competing land uses and narrow streets. alongside this, we will look at increasing will result in considerable disruption to those There is also high demand for public cycle residential opportunities in sites such as visiting, living and working in the area, as well parking but narrow footways severely limit Trenchard House and Ham Yard (please see the number of suitable sites. Many Sheffield Soho’s three areas of green space –Soho as to traffic and pedestrians. Westminster Square, St Anne’s Gardens and Golden Berwick Street and Ham Yard sections for more). 38 Soho Action Plan Renewal: Our lasting legacy Renewal: Our lasting legacy Soho Action Plan 39

We are aware from residents, local landlords Ham Yard Marshall Street opportunities for signage improvements, and police that they remain concerned about Ham Yard is mainly derelict, apart from one A high-quality refurbishment is proposed for especially on the more ‘trodden’ streets such the effect the activities of the illegal sex trade office building on the south side. In 2003, Marshall Street Leisure Centre. Plans include as Old Compton Street and Wardour Street. and hostess bars are having on the quality planning permission was granted for a a restored, historic public swimming pool of the area. It is felt that the advantages to mixed-use scheme comprising of residential and a range of leisure services that will Black cabs can be difficult to find in Soho be gained through the regeneration of Ham units, commercial space, and a small provide a state of the art public leisure centre as drivers are reluctant to get held up in the Yard and Berwick Street will be seriously restaurant. This was subject to legal for community use, a smaller 200-space car one-way system. A traffic survey will be diminished by the continued presence of this agreement to secure affordable housing, park and a new-build depot to meet the carried out with a view to addressing this, type of illegal sex trade. We will look at public art and some street improvements, cleansing needs of the area. It is important balanced with discouraging an increase in forming a multi disciplinary enforcement but the landowners have not yet pursued the that this reduces the current impact on traffic from the area and including a rigorous team comprising of the council and external scheme. It is a great time to bring about real residents in Dufour’s Place. In addition to assessment of pedestrian priority to look at enforcement agencies to take action on change in this part of Soho. The council will providing residential accommodation, the the conflicts between cars and pedestrians these activities. use the full extent of its powers to bring scheme will also include commercial units on Old Compton Street, for example. We will about development of this site and will to encourage small, independent businesses. also investigate the possibility of a black-cab Berwick Street develop alternative regeneration proposals It will include affordable and key-worker rank in Soho. In March 2007, the council adopted a in the event that the existing permission is housing, in accordance with planning policy. planning brief for the area around Berwick not implemented. We will continue to revitalise this area and The council recognises the role pedicabs Street. We want to promote an improvement work with the community during the have in the West End, but they are not scheme to regenerate this part of Soho and In May 2007, the council’s Environmental development phases of this scheme. Neither universally welcomed as they block streets the planning brief will guide this process. Health department took direct action in Ham planning permission nor listed building and pavements and their behaviour in the We are considering how proposals can be Yard by erecting a fence around the site. consent has been granted at the time of midst of traffic can be dangerous. The taken forward with local residents and It intends to recoup the cost of work from going to print. council has been lobbying Government to businesses, together with the Trenchard the landowner in due course and we will introduce enforcement powers against House and Westminster Kingsway College continue to take action to protect public pedicabs, and will continue to press the sites. The Berwick Street Working Group has safety on this site. Visitors to Soho Department for Transport (DfT) and other been established to liaise and work with us Soho can seem like a maze at times but that Government departments for action in this to see the regeneration through. We want to is part of its appeal. Visitors will find that they regard. Transport for London (TfL) has also support the mainstay of the Berwick Street are never far from a restaurant, bar, shop, or consulted on a licensing regime for community and encourage this area of Soho café. We will work to promote Soho and pedicabs. We will continue to work with TfL to develop and prosper. In addition to the encourage more daytime visitors. Directions on the implementation of pedicab licensing. Berwick Street News, there is a specific to the main thoroughfares, such as Charing website that will give updated information on Cross Road, Oxford Street, Regent Street this work and Shaftesbury Avenue would be useful www.westminster.gov.uk/berwickstreet in guiding pedestrians, especially at night. As part of a wider pan-London scheme to waymark the West End we will investigate One Soho, One City, One Action Plan Soho Action Plan 41

The Leader’s vision for the City of Westminster is clear: everybody who lives, works, and visits the city shares it with other people and we cannot, and should not, ignore those around us. New arrivals must accept British culture and values and respect all people regardless of race, nationality, religion, age, gender, disability or sexual orientation. Soho, with its mix of people, businesses, and communities is an excellent example of this. Our vision, as set out in this action plan, is that Soho remains inclusive and tolerant, and that it is a fantastic place in which to:

Live Work Visit Learn Invest and be creative

These six themes can be achieved through the actions set out in the following section, and we believe that these will be a lasting legacy for Soho. One Soho, One City,

Great Marlborough Street One Action Plan (ref 6 on map) 42 Soho Action Plan One Soho, One City, One Action Plan One Soho, One City, One Action Plan Soho Action Plan 43

Actions – What did you think? During consultation, people told us which actions they thought were most important to them. The following summary shows the top three actions from each section of the plan that will be taken forward as priorities, in partnership with the Soho Steering Group, council departments, local residents, stakeholders and community groups and the Primary Care Trust:

Order Enterprise Renewal One Soho

02. Develop a strategy to deal with ambient 30. Work with local landowners and small 46. Implement the Open Spaces Strategy 56. Look into the provision of a virtual noise levels in Soho (including noise from businesses to attract and retain including biodiversity, reviewing access museum to record Soho’s rich and late-night traffic, air conditioning units, independent businesses and establish a for disabled people and looking at ways varied history. patrons of licensed premises and Soho-focused independent retailers of enhancing Golden Square. waste collections). association to encourage independent 59. Work with Kairos in Soho to support retailers back into the area. 49. Promote an improvement scheme to the needs of the LGBT community. 03. Work with night-time establishments to regenerate the area around Berwick reduce disturbance and urination when 39. Work with gay businesses to address Street, encompassing the Trenchard 60. Examine the feasibility of a LGBT patrons leave premises. their needs and issues, and encourage House and WKC sites, working in community facility as a focus for a greater range of gay economic and partnership with the local community. community action, health and social 05. To work with the Community Protection community activities. care, social enterprise, exhibition space department and LGBT community 51. Improve Marshall Street Leisure Centre, and research. organisations to improve the reporting 41. Work with the local community to working closely with the local community and case management of LGBT regenerate the Berwick Street area, to revitalise the area. hate crimes. encouraging its development as Soho’s Local High Street. Opportunity

22./23. Encourage public art programmes which reflect the diversity of the Soho community. Encourage public art as part of any new developments and as a potential temporary use of derelict sites.

24. Support local community organisations and community festivals.

26. Work with the Westminster Primary Care Trust to deliver targeted services that meet the health and social care needs of the whole Soho community, focusing especially on services which aim to improve the health and lifestyles of residents. List of actions Soho Action Plan 45

Order 07. Investigate the provision of a licensed 13. Undertake an audit of the street scene LGBT and women friendly cab service. in order to establish a programme of 01. Limit new late alcohol and entertainment Department/Agency: Community Protection/ streetscape improvements with local List of licences in the West End ‘Stress Area’. West End Team partnership funding including review and Department/Agency: Licensing/Planning Time scale: MT rationalise street furniture and signage. Time scale: MT Department/Agency: West End 08. Continue to support and promote the Team/Transportation 02. Develop a strategy to deal with ambient ‘Safer travel at night’ campaign in Time scale: ST actions noise levels in Soho (including noise from partnership with TfL, including the late-night traffic, air conditioning units, establishment of a recognisable pick 14. Review waste collection rounds to patrons of licensed premises and waste up point for licensed mini cabs. investigate where narrower vehicles are collections). Department/Agency: Transportation/ needed and how such vehicles can be Time scale key Department/Agency: Community Protection Community Protection made available for these streets. Time scale: LT Department/Agency: Cleansing ST (Short Term) Time scale: LT Time scale: MT 12 months or less to complete 03. Work with night-time establishments to 09. Continue to use CCTV from SMART cars to enforce against illegal mini-cabs and 15. Investigate locations for new mobile MT (Medium Term) reduce disturbance and urination when carry out concerted, targeted campaigns toilets and improve signage and lighting 2 to 5 years to complete patrons leave premises. Department/Agency: Community Protection of enforcement. to existing facilities. Department/Agency: Parking Department/Agency: Environment and Leisure LT (Long Term) Time scale: LT Time scale: LT Time scale: LT up to 5 years to complete 04. Undertake an audit and then implement ‘Design Out Crime’ initiatives in the area. 10. Enforce against illegal mini-cabs by 16. Investigate the implementation of Department/Agency: Community Protection CCTV when the Wireless City is preventative measures where street Time scale: MT complete (by October 2008). urination is common. Department/Agency: Parking/Transportation/ Department/Agency: Cleansing/Community 05. To work with Community Protection and Community Protection Protection LGBT community organisations to Time scale: LT Time scale: MT improve the reporting and case management of LGBT hate crimes. 11. Investigate the use of ASBOs and Department/Agency: Community Protection continue to use CCTV to combat Time scale: LT aggressive begging at cashpoints. Department/Agency: Community Protection 06. Support and assist initiatives to address Time scale: LT homophobia (including aggressive behaviour, mocking and harassment) 12. Work with Police on initiatives to prevent and eliminate the targeting of Soho for cycle theft, including investigating such activity. suitable locations for cycle stands. Department/Agency: Community Protection Department/Agency: Community Time scale: LT Protection/West End Team/Transportation Time scale: MT 46 Soho Action Plan List of actions Soho Action Plan 47

Opportunity 20. Work with Westminster Kingsway 23. Encourage art as part of any new College in developing its accommodation developments and as a potential 17. Work with Westminster Adult Education as part of the wider redevelopment of temporary use of derelict sites. Service to find new premises. the Berwick Street area to increase its Department/Agency: West End Department/Agency: Lifelong prominence in the area for the English Team/Planning/Libraries, Arts and Culture Learning/Property Division Language Courses and the creative sector. Time scale: LT Time scale: LT Department/Agency: West End Team/Planning Time scale: LT 24. Support local community organisations 18. Work with Soho Parish Primary School to and community festivals. produce a ‘School Travel Plan’ including 21. Facilitate community input into the Department/Agency: West End Team/Libraries, educational initiatives for children and Education Strategy of the Photographers’ Arts and Culture/Communications improved road safety measures close to Gallery when it moves to Soho in 2009. Time scale: LT the school. Department/Agency: West End Team/Libraries, Department/Agency: Transportation Arts and Culture/West End LARP 25. Work with local independent art galleries Time scale: LT Time scale: LT and theatres to address their needs. Department/Agency: West End Team/Libraries, 19. Lobby for legislation to shut down 22. Encourage public art programmes, which Arts and Culture hostess and ‘near-beer’ bars, prioritising reflect the diversity of the Soho community. Time scale: LT those which impact on the local Department/Agency: West End Team/Planning community, such as the school. /Libraries, Arts and Culture 26. Work with Westminster Primary Care Department/Agency: Community Protection/ Time scale: LT Trust to deliver targeted services that Licensing/Legal services meet the health and social care needs Time scale: LT of the whole Soho community, focussing especially on services which aim to improve the health and lifestyles of residents. Department/Agency: Westminster PCT/Soho Caring Agencies Forum/Social Services/ West End Team Time scale: LT 48 Soho Action Plan List of actions List of actions Soho Action Plan 49

Enterprise 31. Continue to review loading provisions 35. Establish a forum or ‘local restaurant 40. Work in partnership with landowners to within Soho, also considering areas group’ to address catering trade issues. improve the entrance to Carnaby Street 27. Host an international creative industries where business mix has changed, such Department/Agency: West End Team via Great Marlborough Street. conference in Soho. as Richmond Mews. Time scale: LT Department/Agency: Transportation/ Department/Agency: Planning Policy Department/Agency: Parking West End Team Time scale: ST Time scale: LT Time scale: LT 36. Promote Soho’s live music scene 28. Where appropriate, take forward actions 32. Support the Clear Zones Delivery Department/Agency: West End Team/Libraries, 41. Work with the local community to arising from the WCC Creative Industries Consolidation Scheme working with the Arts and Culture regenerate the Berwick Street area, Study to help support and promote Clear Zones Partnership to include Soho Time scale: LT encouraging it as ‘Soho’s Local creative sector businesses in Soho. within the Clear Zone boundary. High Street’. Department/Agency: Planning Policy Department/Agency: Transportation 37. Monitor the impact of central Department/Agency: West End Time scale: MT Time scale: LT government’s proposals to decriminalise Team/Licensing/Property Division/ small brothels. City West Homes 29. Work in partnership with local businesses 33. Consider provisions for tradesmen and Department/Agency: Planning Enforcement Time scale: LT to promote the area’s local mix and contractors, as well as parking for the Time scale: LT history and to protect and promote Berwick Street Market Traders and key 42. Formulate a long term vision for Berwick Soho’s key shopping destinations. workers as part of the Parking Permit 38. Work with the media industry in Soho Street and Rupert Street market to help Department/Agency: West End Team Re-Engineering Review. and support any forum or association set them operate more efficiently and to Time scale: LT Department/Agency: Parking up to address their needs. flourish. Time scale: MT Department/Agency: West End Team Department/Agency: West End 30. Work with local landowners and small Time scale: LT Team/Licensing/ Community Protection/CPG businesses to attract and retain 34. Work on making it easier for vehicles Time scale: LT independent businesses and establish a used by disabled people, including 39. Work with gay businesses to address Soho-focused independent retailers’ minibuses adapted to transport their needs and issues, and encourage a 43. Identify bars and other premises with association to encourage independent wheelchairs, to drop off passengers. greater range of gay economic and features such as un-stepped access, retailers back into the area. Department/Agency: Department/Agency: community activities. accessible tables and toilets and make Department/Agency: West End Team Parking/Transportation Department/Agency: West End Team/West End information available. Time scale: LT Time scale: LT LARP Department/Agency: WCC Access Time scale: LT Officer/Property Division Time scale: LT 50 Soho Action Plan List of actions List of actions Soho Action Plan 51

Renewal 50. Proactively work towards regeneration of One Soho 61. Westminster Primary Care Trust to the area in and around Great Windmill establish a 'Healthy Soho' user group 44. Undertake a Street lighting audit. Street and Ham Yard. 56. Look into the provision of a Virtual to oversee the implementation of the Department/Agency: West End Team/Highways Department/Agency: DPS/Housing/West End Museum to record Soho’s rich and 'Healthy Soho' Action Plan. Time scale: ST Team/Street Enforcement varied history. Department/Agency: Westminster PCT at Soho Time scale: LT Department/Agency: Libraries, Arts and Centre for Health and Care 45. Make necessary physical improvements Culture/Soho Society/West End Team Time scale: ST to Beak, Kingly and Warwick Streets in 51. Make improvements to the Marshall Time scale: MT partnership with landowners. Street Leisure Centre, working closely 62. Aim to improve the 18 priority areas in Department/Agency: West End Team/ with the local community to revitalise 57. Consult on classes or groups to be held Westminster’s Children and Young Transportation the area. at the Marshall Street Leisure Centre, People’s Plan, contributing to the agreed Time scale: LT Department/Agency: Environment when it re-opens. targets for 2006-09. Projects/Planning Department/Agency: Environment Projects Department/Agency: Education/Westminster 46. Implement the ‘Open Spaces Strategy’ Time scale: LT Time scale: LT CYPSP including biodiversity and reviewing Time scale: LT access for disabled people and looking 52. Introduce better signage as part of the at ways of enhancing Golden Square. wider scheme to “waymark” the West 58. Undertake an audit of Soho’s community 63. Expand facilities for older people in Soho Department/Agency: Parks and Leisure/West End, as part of the Central London facilities and services and work with the through the Age Concern Covent Garden End Team Partnership Scheme. West End Community Network to Day Centre. Time scale: LT Department/Agency: Transport Policy/West End investigate options for a community Department/Agency: Adult Social Services/Adult Team centre. Social Care/Older Peoples Services 47. Carry out green audit of Soho and review Time scale: LT Department/Agency: West End Team Time scale: MT recommendations for implementation. Time scale: ST . Department/Agency: West End Team/Go 53. Investigate the possibility of a black-cab 64. Promote inter-generational initiatives in Green/CPG/Landowners/English Heritage rank in Soho. 59. Work with Kairos in Soho to support the the community. Time scale: ST Department/Agency: needs of the LGBT community. Department/Agency: West End LARP/Older Transportation/PCO/Community Protection Department/Agency: West End Team/West End Peoples Services 48. Organise multi-agency task force to deal Time scale: MT LARP Time scale: LT with problems associated with clipping Time scale: LT and unlicensed premises. 54. Lobby the DfT to introduce enforcement 65. Increase volunteering activities across Department/Agency: Cross departmental, plus powers against pedicabs, and work with all communities in Soho through the external agencies TfL to consult on a licensing regime. 60. Examine the feasibility of a LGBT Time Bank. Time scale: MT Department/Agency: Transportation/Community community facility as a focus for Department/Agency: West End LARP Protection community action, health and social Time scale: LT 49. Promote an improvement scheme for the Time scale: LT care, social enterprise, exhibition space area around Berwick Street, encompassing and research. the Trenchard House and WKC sites, 55. Carry out traffic survey, to include Department/Agency: West End Team working in partnership with the pedestrian priority. Time scale: ST local community. Department/Agency: Transportation/West End Department/Agency: West End Team Team/CPG/DPS/Property Division/Licensing/ Time scale: ST Transportation/City West Homes Time scale: LT 52 Soho Action Plan Contact details

Contact

You can stay in touch with progress in a number of ways:

Web www.westminster.gov.uk/onesoho

Email [email protected]

Tel 020 7641 3341

People who are deaf or hard of hearing can – Use a BSL intepreter on a videophone at One Stop Services. – Textphone/minicom: 020 7641 8000 020 7641 8222 social services

Text a brief question to 07797 882 705

Use a computer and go to www.westminster.gov.uk/textphone

Write to us at West End Team Planning and City Development Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

If you would like this document in an alternative format or language, please contact us using the details above to make your request. cultural and commercial heritage. Whils pot, Soho thrives thanks to the persona a truly contemporary community. Order We want being in Soho to be a safe and to achieve this. Opportunity Thereisas visitors feel at home. This makes it on which to live and work. Enterprise Enco all that Soho has to offer and opening business-friendly; we want these to be judged by future generations on how w businesses and workers in areas of rege