New Al Fresco Dining Initiative Set to Launch in London’s West End
A new initiative aimed at enhancing outdoor dining opportunities is set to debut in London’s bustling West End this Friday. The pilot program, part of Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan’s Summer Streets Fund announced earlier this year, will support the establishment of outdoor dining spaces in four strategic locations across the capital. However, the timing of the project has raised questions among local businesses.
While the launch date for the area’s implementation was initially unspecified, recent discussions with multiple dining establishments on St Martin’s Lane revealed that their outdoor seating licenses would take effect on August 22 and run through to the end of October.
Investment in Outdoor Dining
The scheme, which has garnered a financial backing of £300,000 from City Hall, aims to bolster the local hospitality sector and encourage more outdoor eating and drinking. Previous iterations of similar initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic increased al fresco dining in various locales, prompting the mayor to extend these offerings.
In Sir Sadiq Khan’s own words: “We saw what a success it was during the pandemic, and I want to expand al fresco dining further in the years to come, all part of building a better London for everyone.”
Mixed Reactions from Local Businesses
Restaurant and café owners on St Martin’s Lane, which has been allocated £50,000 from the total fund, expressed a mix of excitement and concern. Natalia Prusik, the general manager of Côte Brasserie, shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming launch but noted, “It would have been much more exciting if it started in May, but we will take it as it comes. It’s really good for the business for sure.” The establishment plans to set up around 14 tables with 28 covers available for diners.
Antonio Simonte, general manager of the Italian eatery Fumo, voiced a similar sentiment. “I’ve been trying for years to get tables outside. I believe we should have started earlier. It’s the end of August,” he remarked. Simonte also expressed hope that future iterations of the scheme would be implemented to capitalize on favorable summer weather.
| Location | Allocated Fund | Status |
|---|---|---|
| St Martin’s Lane | £50,000 | Launching on August 22 |
| Redchurch Street | £100,000 | Confirmed |
| Rivington Street | £100,000 | Confirmed |
| Atlantic Road | £50,000 | Confirmed |
Enhanced Local Experience
Other establishments joining the initiative include The Real Greek, La Roche, Pizza Express, and Browns. City Hall has announced that St Martin’s Lane will become car-free daily from 11 AM to 11 PM, allowing up to 34 businesses to obtain outdoor dining licenses.
A spokesperson for Westminster City Council highlighted the vibrant outdoor dining culture in the area, stating, “Westminster is home to a thriving al fresco dining scene, with over 900 licenses for outdoor dining granted in the past six months alone.” The St Martin’s Lane scheme is designed not just to revitalise the local economy but also to invite visitors to indulge in Westminster’s renowned restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions throughout the summer months.
