In the News Teaching Activity – why are Leeds clubbers being given lollipops? (Jan 2025)

A Leeds nightclub is giving lollipops to clubbers to reduce noise complaints.

The decision to distribute lollipops to clubbers outside Home and Carousel highlights a creative, low-cost approach to mitigating noise-related issues while supporting the local nightlife economy. By extending operating hours to 4am on weekdays and 5am on weekends, the venue aligns with a growing trend for later openings in Leeds, which boosts late-night revenue but raises concerns over disruption. Noise-limiting measures, such as relocating smoking areas and installing acoustic panelling, complement the lollipop initiative, aiming to balance economic benefits with residents’ quality of life.

Lollies to be given to Leeds city clubbers to keep them quiet - BBC News

1. What externalities does the lollipop handout aim to address?

2. Assess how the idea of giving lollipops to clubbers utilises behavioural economic concepts to influence behaviour.

3. Evaluate the likely effectiveness of the various noise-limiting measures implemented by the venue.