Streets in Lambeth, Hackney, Waltham Forest and Westminster will be the first London boroughs to host new open-air dining and drinking spots this summer.
The boroughs, two of which are in east London, will receive funding from the Mayor’s £300,000 Summer Streets Fund, designed to boost the capital’s hospitality and nightlife industries.
The announcement comes after the Mayor was granted new licensing powers by central government, allowing for extended opening hours and more outdoor dining across London.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “I’m delighted to announce the first of many new al fresco hotspots across the capital to help Londoners and visitors make the most of our summer this year.
“With new car-free, al fresco dining in Westminster, Shoreditch, Brixton, Leyton there will be new and fantastic spaces to bring people together.
“The schemes announced today are just the beginning and we’re looking to build on their success across London in the years ahead.”
West End
St Martin’s Lane will be car-free from 11am-11pm, with al fresco licences available for up to 34 businesses.
Plans are being brought forward to make it permanent.
Brixton
From August to September, the new Brixton Summer Zone will offer open-air seating, live performances, workshops, and market stalls on Saturday evenings.
Atlantic Road will host more car-free days on select weekends throughout October, extending into the evening to support local dining and entertainment.
Shoreditch
Independent bars and restaurants on Rivington Street and Redchurch Street can offer outdoor dining until Midnight for the first time, with car-free evenings on Fridays and Saturdays.
Businesses will be able to apply for free licences for the first three months.
Leyton
Francis Road in Leyton will extend its car-free hours, creating a hub for street trading, games, events, and a weekend market.
Leyton Midland Road will also host outdoor dining as part of a summer event.
Hackney and Lambeth Councils will receive £100,000 each, while Waltham and Westminster Councils will receive £50,000 each.
Night Time Industries Association CEO Michael Kill said: “Creating vibrant, accessible outdoor spaces for food, drink and culture is a powerful way to bring communities together and boost local economies.
“We see this as a strong foundation, and hope it will grow into a city-wide movement that helps reshape and revitalise London’s nightlife for years to come.”
The scheme is supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Feature image: Lex Brogan on Unsplash
Map data: Google Maps
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