London mayor to override Soho council opposition to outdoor dining
8 reported
London mayor Sadiq Khan plans to override opposition to al fresco dining in Soho after Westminster council failed to apply to a seasonal pedestrianisation scheme being introduced across the capital. From 2027, restaurants in Soho will be allowed to put chairs outside in warmer months despite a longstanding local dispute. Khan announced on Monday that 13 London boroughs received a share of nearly £500,000 for outdoor dining, events and extended hours. Sources close to Khan said new powers would allow him to overrule Westminster council for summer 2027. The Soho Society, a residents’ group, had complained about noise from outdoor dining, leading the council to wind up a previous pandemic-era scheme. Khan stated his new powers from government would let him open up central London to outdoor dining. The article is based on a single source, The Guardian.
What’s reported
Sadiq Khan plans to override opposition to al fresco dining in Soho after Westminster council failed to apply to a seasonal pedestrianisation scheme.
From 2027, restaurants in Soho will be allowed outdoor seating in warmer months.
Khan announced 13 London boroughs received nearly £500,000 for outdoor dining, events and extended hours.
Sources close to Khan said new powers would allow him to overrule Westminster council for summer 2027.
The Soho Society complained about noise from outdoor dining, leading the council to end a previous pandemic-era scheme.
Khan said new powers from government would allow him to open up central London to outdoor dining.
Areas receiving funding include Barking and Dagenham, Brent, Greenwich and Lambeth for large al fresco projects.
Eleven smaller “pocket” schemes in other boroughs received up to £10,000 each.
Key figures
Sadiq Khan, mayor of London
Kate Nicholls, chair of UKHospitality
The Soho Society (residents’ group, no individual named)
Sources: The Guardian
