McDonald's Leicester Square, the largest McDonald's in London, is set to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, after its operator, Capital Arches Group (CAG), was granted a 24-hour premises license by Westminster Council. The decision comes despite objections from the Metropolitan Police, the Licensing Authority, and Environmental Health officers, who argued that extended hours could increase crime in an area already saturated with late-night venues.
Current Hours and License Approval
Currently, the Leicester Square branch closes for just under three hours daily, between 2:45am and 5am. With the new license, the restaurant will serve customers around the clock. CAG, which operates 40 McDonald's restaurants across London and the Home Counties, applied for the license to meet what it describes as 'increased demand in the West End for late night refreshment throughout the night and early morning hours over seven days a week'.
Westminster Police Licensing Team had written to the council that the extended hours would 'likely contribute to an increase in crime' in an area that is 'already saturated with late-night licensed venues'. However, in its assessment, Westminster Council concluded that there was 'no evidence' that McDonald's boosts crime in the area.
Support from Local Businesses
CAG received support from surrounding venues, including the Hippodrome Casino, the Londoner hotel, and HOLBA (Heart of London Business Alliance). In a statement submitted before the decision, CAG argued that 'those who live, work or visit London increasingly expect the West End, as the principal entertainment and activity zone in one of the world's greatest cities, to operate 24/7, in common with many of its global rivals.'
The company also highlighted that the Leicester Square McDonald's is the only accredited 'Safe Haven' premises on the plaza—a designated venue offering temporary refuge, basic assistance, and a secure space for vulnerable people. CAG contends that the 24-hour license could actually benefit more people by extending access to this support.
Implications and Timeline
The exact date when McDonald's Leicester Square will begin 24/7 operations has not yet been announced. The decision reflects a broader trend in London's West End toward round-the-clock services, aligning with other global entertainment districts.
This development comes amid a growing demand for late-night food options in central London, particularly after night shifts or club outings. McDonald's already operates dozens of 24-hour locations across the city, but the Leicester Square branch's size and central location make this a significant move.
