The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has committed the figure to support al fresco dining and events in the capital this summer as part of the returning Summer Streets initiative.
The funding will be shared across 15 streets with the aim of supporting councils and hospitality businesses.
Four large al fresco projects in Barking & Dagenham, Brent, Greenwich and Lambeth have each received grants of up to £100,000 with the intent to transform areas with outdoor dining, World Cup screenings, markets and cultural activities.
Summer Streets was launched by Khan last year to support hospitality businesses in the capital. This year’s Summer Streets budget is £200,000 more than the £300,000 pledged in 2025 and is almost £100,000 more than the figure that was announced earlier this year.
A further 11 smaller pocket schemes in Brent, Camden, Ealing, Haringey, Hounslow, Islington, Lewisham, Newham, Sutton and Waltham Forest have been awarded up to £10,000 each to fund projects including food and drink night markets, DJ and live music sessions, and family-friendly community events.
The move comes as Khan gains new licensing powers that will see Khan able to introduce a London-wide Strategic Licensing Policy, which will allow him to make formal representations on licensing decisions, be consulted on revisions to borough policies, and call in strategically important cases. Councils that refuse later opening hours for pubs and clubs could have their decisions overturned.
Under current rules, each borough operates its own licensing system.
“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,” says Khan.
“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.”