Published: Wednesday 6 October 2021
People can enjoy outdoor dining for another year in Kensington and Chelsea – after the 2021 al fresco dining revolution.
Bars, restaurants and cafes have had the chance to boost their customer numbers with 270 pavement licences for outdoor drinking and dining renewed until 30 September 2022.
Kensington and Chelsea Council allowed new applications after the government extended legislation to allow more outdoor seating to be provided until the end of next summer.
It comes after a huge boost for the local economy during the pandemic, with 400 local businesses taking advantage of the option during lockdown, when indoor dining was restricted under measures to reduce the spread of Covid 19.
Cllr Johnny Thalassites, lead member for planning, place and environment, said:
“Businesses have been amazing in their resilience and determination over the last 18 months and we want to do everything we can to support them.
“Al fresco dining made our streets come alive again after all those months of quiet. It helped our restaurants to survive when inside dining wasn’t an option, kept people in jobs and is now helping businesses to serve more customers.
“It’s brought a real café culture to our streets which is a great asset for local residents and an attraction for people across London.”
All existing licences granted last year by the council expired on 30 September 2021, with 270 being renewed for next year. Businesses can still apply for a new licence after this date. All new licences issued will expire on 30 September 2022 – in accordance with the Business and Planning Act 2020.