INDUSTRY leaders are being called on to help the West Midlands Mayor draw up a plan to protect and revitalise the region’s night-time economy.

Richard Parker is on the look out for members for a Night-Time Economy Commission to explore the challenges facing pubs, music venues, cinemas, restaurants, street food stalls, and gyms, and then identify what support the sector needs to thrive.

The night-time economy is a big employer in the region, making up around a third of the entire West Midlands workforce with 120,000 working in hospitality.

The recovery from lockdown and restrictions during the Covid pandemic is being slowed by changing consumer behaviours linked to cost-of-living pressures, alongside changes to licensing and regulation, and public transport, safety, and staffing issues.

Mr Parker said: “Our night-time economy is a crucial part of what makes the West Midlands a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. That’s why I’m going to be working side by side with industry leaders, businesses, and communities to help this sector not just survive, but thrive.

“That means valuing the jobs it creates, backing the businesses that keep our region buzzing after dark, and ensuring everyone feels safe, supported, and confident, whether you’re working behind a bar, out with friends, a nurse on the night shift, or driving a taxi.”

The Mayor’s Night-Time Economy Commission will run for six months and be manged for the Mayor by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

It will be made up of up to eight private sector representatives from every part of the sector with successful candidates expected to attend in-person and online meetings and help draw up a set of recommendations to secure the future of the night-time economy.

Interested candidates will be asked to complete a short online application form outlining the skills and experience they can bring to the voluntary role, and those who are shortlisted may be invited to take part in an informal conversation to explore their suitability in more detail.

To apply to join the Mayoral Night-time Economy Commission click here.

Applications will close on Wednesday, September 24.