Cookie Policy
We use cookies and similar technologies to make London News work, to measure performance, and to deliver content you enjoy. Here’s how we do it, in compliance with UK laws (PECR, UK GDPR, Data Use and Access act etc.)
1. What Are Cookies & Similar Technologies
Cookies are small files stored on your device when you visit our site. Other “cookie-like” technologies include tracking pixels, local storage, device IDs.
These help us remember you, understand how you use the site, personalise content, etc.
2. Categories of Cookies We Use
| Type | Purpose | Do you need to consent? |
| Strictly Necessary / Essential | Required for site functionality (loading pages, security, navigation, polls working properly) | No, consent not required under PECR/UK law |
| Preference / Functional | Remember settings/preferences (language, display theme, etc.) | Yes, unless user has given explicit consent or under new exceptions under the Data (Use and Access) Act with opt-out |
| Analytics / Performance | To see how often pages are visited, which content is popular, errors, etc. | Yes, consent required (unless relying on permitted statistical exemptions, but still must inform user and allow opting out) |
| Advertising / Marketing / Third-Party / Tracking | For advertising, retargeting, third-party media embeds, tracking across sites | Yes, must get consent before placing such cookies; clear information required |
3. What Laws Apply
- Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) governs use of cookies / storing of information or accessing stored information on users’ devices. Non-essential cookies generally need consent. Cookie Information+3ICO+3Linklaters+3
- UK GDPR / Data Protection Act 2018 require lawful basis, transparency, user rights. ICO+1
- Data (Use and Access) Act introduces new exceptions for statistics, appearance/layout preferences, emergencies. Still requires user notification and opt-out, except for emergencies. Syrenis+1
4. Obtaining Consent
- On your first visit, for any non-essential cookies, we’ll show a clear banner/notice asking for your explicit consent before setting them.
- Consent must be given by affirmative action (button, toggles), not by scrolling or implicit behaviour. iubenda+2Linklaters+2
- We’ll provide options to accept all, reject all non-essential, or customise preferences. Reject option should be as easy to use as accept. iubenda+1
5. Managing Cookies
- You can change or withdraw consent at any time via our cookie settings link.
- You can disable non-essential cookies in your browser settings, but this may affect site functionality.
- We keep a record of your consent choices.
6. Third-Party Cookies
- Some services (embedded media, analytics, adverts) set their own cookies. We list which third parties are involved.
- When you consent to third-party cookies, you accept that third party’s cookie policy.
7. Changes to Cookie Policy
We may update this policy if how we use cookies changes. We’ll update the effective date. If changes are material, we’ll notify via site banner or similar.
