London Mayor Sadiq Khan Launches £300,000 Fund to Boost Al Fresco Dining, Late-Night Hospitality

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has announced a £300,000 Summer Streets Fund aimed at boosting al fresco dining and extending opening hours for pubs, restaurants, and venues across the capital in summer 2025. This initiative supports the hospitality sector by enabling councils to apply for funding to create or expand outdoor eating and drinking areas, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and help venues extend their hours. The fund follows the UK Government's decision to grant the Mayor new licensing powers to 'call in' blocked applications in nightlife hotspots, facilitating smoother operations for hospitality businesses. Khan emphasized the importance of London's hospitality industry as a major employer and economic contributor, and expressed his commitment to working with councils and the sector to cut red tape and stimulate growth. The move has been welcomed by the Night Time Industries Association, whose CEO called it a timely effort to boost footfall and provide a platform for hospitality and nightlife to thrive. Overall, the Summer Streets Fund is part of a broader effort to rejuvenate London's nighttime economy and enhance its appeal to millions of tourists expected this summer.