Almost £500k is being shared across 15 streets in London to support outdoor dining and events this summer.
The Mayor of London has relaunched the Summer Streets project to help councils and hospitality businesses make the most of the warmer months.
Four major al fresco schemes in Barking & Dagenham, Brent, Greenwich and Lambeth will receive up to £100,000. The aim is to create outdoor dining spaces, host events such as World Cup screenings, markets and cultural activities.
A further 11 smaller ‘pocket’ schemes across areas including Camden, Ealing, Islington and Newham have each been awarded up to £10,000, which will fund activities including night markets and live music.
- Against the backdrop of warmer months, the scheme comes as homelessness in London has reached a record high, raising concerns about the impacts of extreme weather
Sadiq Khan said new licensing powers are ‘making it easier to extend opening hours and expand what’s on offer’, and will help ‘support our hospitality and nightlife’.
Under the new system, the Mayor will be able to comment on licensing applications and be consulted on changes to borough policies. This means councils that refuse later opening hours for pubs and clubs may have their decisions challenged.
A ‘weekend hopper’ travel offer will also run during the summer peak. From 25 July to 31 August, passengers using buses and trams can travel unlimited journeys for a single daily fare.
Sadiq Khan said: ‘I’m delighted that we’re working with boroughs and local businesses to bring al fresco dining, live music, events and later opening hours to streets across our capital.
‘From Woolwich to Willesden Green, Finsbury Park to Feltham, and right in the heart of the capital in Waterloo, this investment will create new outdoor spaces, support local businesses and give Londoners and visitors even more reasons to get out and enjoy our city.’
Image: Seongyeon Jo
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