The Summer Streets Fund has been launched following the Government announcement that it will give the Mayor new licensing powers, which will allow him to ‘call in’ blocked licensing applications in nightlife hotspots.
Councils will be able to apply for a share of the money, which can be put towards the creation of new outdoor eating and drinking areas, enabling businesses to extend the al fresco footprint or opening hours.
Greatest city
“London is the greatest city in the world and as summer approaches and our city is set to welcome millions of tourists, I’m keen to put al fresco dining and later opening hours back on the menu,” Khan said.
“London’s world-class range of restaurants, cafes and bars is part of what makes our city special, but too often they have found themselves restricted through bureaucracy and rules constraining their growth.
“This new £300,000 Summer Streets Fund will help to kickstart al fresco dining and extend opening hours this summer, allowing the industry to thrive.”
Khan added he would be working closely with councils and the hospitality sector “to cut red tape and give the sector the boost it needs”.
He continued: “Hospitality is one of London’s biggest employers so a thriving sector will drive growth and deliver more jobs across the city, helping us to continue building a better London for everyone.”
Timely move
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) welcomed the move, with CEO Michael Kill calling it “a vital and timely move” by the Mayor.
“This funding offers a real opportunity to cut through bureaucracy, boost footfall, and give hospitality and nightlife the platform they need to flourish,” he said
UKHospitality (UKH) chief executive Kate Nicholls added: “A growth-first approach to licensing and regulation that supports hospitality businesses, cuts red tape and delivers what customers want is the right thing for the Mayor to focus on.
“With the busy summer months fast approaching, new funding to drive the use of outside space can provide a real boost to the sector and I urge London boroughs to get behind this initiative.”
