St Martin’s Lane

MORE than 30 restaurants are taking part in a traffic-free al fresco dining trial in the West End.

The “summer streets” scheme in St Martin’s Lane from 11am to 11pm is running until October 31, when a decision will be made about whether to extend it through 2026.

The Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan’s scheme is backed by the Heart of London Business Alliance and Westminster City Council.

Restaurants are offering deals including cut price pre-theatre meals and £2 takeaway coffees.

Mark Williams, HLBA’s deputy chief executive, said: “This opportunity to increase al fresco dining will increase the street’s appeal and enable even more people to enjoy it.

“Not only will the street’s businesses benefit, which is particularly welcome in this challenging trading environment, it’s likely that the ripple effect will go beyond the street itself.”