One of central London’s biggest landlords today pledged to provide 800 outdoor seats for more diners and drinkers in the streets of Mayfair and Belgravia from next Monday in another major boost to the capital’s embattled hospitality sector.
The Duke of Westminster’s family property company Grosvenor said North Audley Street in Mayfair would be transformed into an “outdoor dining room” while 150 seats will also be laid on at Motcomb Street in Belgravia .
There will also be 150 seats in Grosvenor Square for people picking up takeaways who want to eat them outdoors.
Restaurants, pubs and bars are allowed to start serving outdoors from Monday but many in central London do not have the gardens or terraces that would allow them to take advantage of the easing of restrictions.
But Piers Townley, Interim London Estate Director of Grosvenor Britain & Ireland, said: “We’ve stood by our tenants every step of the way in the past year. For re-opening we wanted to welcome Spring and bring back the buzz that we’ve all been missing so much.
“So we’ve invested in new experiences for visitors and with over 800 outdoor dining spaces across Mayfair and Belgravia – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
“We will continue to demonstrate our support for the retailers and restaurateurs that make Mayfair and Belgravia special and look forward to announcing new initiatives soon.”
It follows similar announcements from Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea councils, which both plan road closures to allow al fresco dining. Covent Garden landowner Capco is also laying on an extra 500 seats on streets around the piazza.
