Vilnius is setting up a Night Bureau (Vilniaus naktinis biuras) to look after the capital’s nightlife, the municipality announced in a press release on Wednesday.
The Vilnius Night Bureau will be responsible for improving the quality and safety of nightlife in the city, as well as promoting socially responsible and sustainable development of the nighttime economy.
"We estimate that more than 6 percent of Vilnius residents work in establishments or businesses that operate at night: bars, nightclubs, concert venues,” said Deputy Mayor of Vilnius Simona Bieliūnė.
“These activities generate more than €165 million in revenue each year. We believe that beyond the financial benefits, a strategically managed nighttime economy can engage the city's communities, [...], improve public safety and bring other benefits to the city," she added.
Since 2001, more than 60 cities around the world have established night commissions, night mayors or other institutions to support the nighttime economy, the municipality said.
The new institution will be responsible for promoting and developing the night-time economy. It will also be involved in educating people about drugs and safety.
The Night Bureau will also be tasked to help combine the interests of those involved in the sector and regular residents of Vilnius.
"It is no secret that in recent years there have been a number of conflicts between the residents of the capital and the owners and organisers of [nightlife] venues,” said Bieliūnė.
“We believe that such a body would encourage dialogue between all interested parties, seeking the best solution and compromises,” she added.
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