New Outdoor Dining Initiative Launched Amid Timing Concerns
A fresh al fresco dining initiative is set to kick off in London’s West End this Friday, although some local businesses have expressed skepticism regarding the timing of the program. Announced earlier this year by Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, the Summer Streets Fund will facilitate outdoor dining experiences in four distinct locations throughout the city.
While a specific start date had not been confirmed for the al fresco dining on St Martin’s Lane, interviews conducted by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) reveal that several restaurants and cafés in the area are preparing for their licenses to become effective starting August 22 and lasting until the end of October. The Summer Streets Fund, backed with a budget of £300,000 from City Hall, has already successfully funded similar outdoor dining initiatives in Leyton, Shoreditch, and Brixton.
Outdoor Dining Expansion Plan
The mayor’s office has yet to confirm the launch date but has pointed to prior announcements regarding the initiative. Each of the selected locations is designed to operate uniquely, with the overarching goal of revitalizing the local hospitality sector while enhancing outdoor dining experiences.
Sir Sadiq Khan commented on the initiative, stating: “We witnessed the success of outdoor dining during the pandemic, and I aim to extend this concept in the years to come as part of our efforts to create a better London for everyone.”
Local Businesses Express Optimism
Feedback from businesses along St Martin’s Lane has largely been optimistic regarding the new initiative. The general manager of Côte Brasserie, Natalia Prusik, expressed her enthusiasm: “We’re excited about the upcoming launch. It would have been much more thrilling had it started in May, but we are ready to make the most out of it. It’s definitely beneficial for business.”
Prusik indicated that their restaurant expects to set up approximately 14 tables with seating for 28 patrons out on the street. Similarly, Antonio Simonte, the manager at Italian eatery Fumo, voiced a desire for the program to have begun earlier, also expressing hope that the scheme will continue in the future to take full advantage of favorable summer weather.
Participating Establishments and Driving Forces
Other businesses involved in the scheme include The Real Greek, La Roche, Pizza Express, and Browns. Once operational, St Martin’s Lane will be designated as car-free from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, allowing al fresco licenses for up to 34 businesses, according to City Hall.
A spokesperson for Westminster City Council stated: “Westminster boasts a vibrant outdoor dining scene, with over 900 licenses for outdoor dining granted in the last six months alone. The initiative on St Martin’s Lane, located in the heart of West End Theatre Land, is part of a larger plan to enhance visitor enjoyment of Westminster’s outstanding restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions this summer.”
Scheme Funding Breakdown
| Location | Funding Amount (£) |
|---|---|
| St Martin’s Lane | 50,000 |
| Hackney | 100,000 |
| Lambeth | 100,000 |
| Waltham Forest | 50,000 |
The other areas benefitting from this scheme include Redchurch Street and Rivington Street in Shoreditch and Atlantic Road in Brixton. The al fresco dining initiative aims to enhance the social and economic fabric of these vibrant communities.
