Jan 2 • Jo Cox-Brown

Nighttime Economy Strategy – Southampton, Hampshire


We were commissioned by GO! Southampton, the Southampton City Centre Business Improvement District, to conduct an in-depth review of the city’s Nighttime Economy. Our work aimed to provide actionable insights from multiple perspectives—policy, operational, user experience, and place management—ensuring that Southampton’s evening and night-time offerings are vibrant, safe, and sustainable.

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What it focussed on:

To achieve this, we undertook extensive research including:

  • Surveys and focus groups with residents, visitors, and workers to understand perceptions, behaviour, and expectations of the night-time economy
  • Stakeholder interviews with local businesses, venue operators, law enforcement, and city planners
  • Operational and policy review to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities for improvement in the management of evening and night-time activities

The insights from this research were used to develop a comprehensive Nighttime Economy Strategy for Southampton. The strategy provides evidence-based recommendations on how the city can:

  • Enhance streetscapes, public spaces, and infrastructure to create a more welcoming and safe environment at night
  • Support events, street art, and cultural initiatives that celebrate the evening economy
  • Improve facilities and amenities for residents and visitors, promoting longer dwell times and repeat visits
  • Guide future investment and development in ways that strengthen Southampton’s night-time economy

In addition, the strategy will support Southampton’s Purple Flag application, demonstrating the city’s commitment to creating a vibrant, safe, and well-managed night-time environment.
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Looking ahead

Could your city, town, or district benefit from a Nighttime Economy review or strategy?

Our team specialises in delivering tailored strategies, research, and recommendations that help local authorities, BID organisations, and stakeholders build safer, more inclusive, and economically thriving night-time economies.

Contact us at hello@nighttimeeconomy.com to explore how we can support your next project and help unlock the full potential of your night-time economy.