London’s Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, has unveiled a £300,000 initiative aimed at enhancing outdoor dining experiences throughout the city.
The Summer Streets Fund allows local councils to seek funding to develop new alfresco dining and drinking spaces, thereby permitting businesses to expand their operational areas or extend their hours, as stated by City Hall.
This initiative also seeks to alleviate financial pressures on venues by streamlining processes, making them more accessible, and potentially reducing or waiving fees, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Last month, two of Sir Sadiq’s deputy mayors encouraged borough authorities to support outdoor dining and late-night operations, a sentiment City Hall hopes will resonate with financially challenged councils.
“London is the most remarkable city globally, and as summer draws near, we expect millions of tourists. I’m eager to reinstate outdoor dining and extended hours,” remarked Sir Sadiq.
“The diverse array of restaurants, cafes, and bars in London is part of what makes our city unique, yet they often face limitations due to bureaucratic hurdles that stifle their growth.
“This £300,000 Summer Streets Fund will invigorate alfresco dining and allow for longer hours this summer, fostering a thriving hospitality sector.”
The announcement received praise from Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, who termed it “a crucial and timely decision by the mayor, sending a clear message: London is ready for business and poised to flourish this summer.”
He added, “As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, the opportunity for venues to operate outdoors and extend their hours is not a luxury; it’s essential.”
Recently, the government indicated it would grant the mayor new licensing authority, enabling him to intervene in blocked licensing requests in popular nightlife areas.
Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, expressed that the Summer Streets initiative is “a promising initial measure to enhance London’s licensing framework.”
“We anticipate collaborating with the mayor and councils in London to eliminate obstacles preventing pubs from providing what they excel at – delivering outstanding beers and warm hospitality to both locals and visitors,” she concluded.
