Bristol residents and workers have expressed unanimous concern following the council’s recent decision to end an award-winning community initiative. Bristol Nights, which was launched in 2018, partnered with a range of local businesses, charities and organisations to create better jobs, safer spaces and wellbeing support for night workers and residents, as well as appointing the city’s first Night Time Economy Advisor, Carly Heath, who has been made redundant as a result of the recent decision. 

An open letter signed by more than 100 businesses and individuals urges the council to reconsider its decision, citing concern for the future of the Women’s Safety Charter- a seven point code of commitment for businesses to tackle harassment and discrimination, which won the Best Night Time Economy Initiative in 2022 and 2024- and the Bristol Music Fund, which many say play a crucial role in the survival of grassroots venues and artists in the area.  

Bristol’s nightlife sector is an economic powerhouse, contributing more than £5.2 million annually in overall spend. Over the years, we have worked with hundreds of promoters, artists and venues in Bristol and are lucky enough to have loyal and longstanding professional relationships with many, as both valued customers and collaborators. With over 41% of employment in the city coming from night shift work, we don’t just support the night time economy- we rely on it. We have also been proud to support Bristol Nights through billboards and beyond, from harm reduction (Bristol Rules) to safeguarding (Anti-Spiking) campaigns. 

In response to the public outcry, Bristol City Council has called an emergency meeting, due to take place on the 8th May 2026. Whilst it may be too late to save the partnership and nighttime economy advisor role, the future of Bristol’s night workers, audiences and our bid to become the 2029 City of Culture hangs in the balance...