Westminster City Council will continue to develop a permanent scheme with widened pavements on Warwick Way and Churton Street after nearly three quarters of local residents backed the proposals. New measures will allow for alfresco dining to continue in the heart of Pimlico.
The council installed temporary alfresco dining measures in July 2020 to allow restaurants, cafes and pubs to cater to customers outside during the heigh of the COVID pandemic. In Pimlico, this was achieved by making Warwick Way one-way and suspending parking bays on Churton Street to create alfresco dining areas.
The changes proved popular with residents and in the latest consultation 74.76 per cent of residents are supportive of a permanent scheme for Warwick Way. 71.97 per cent of residents were supportive of the Churton Street proposals.
Permanent widened pavements will maximise opportunities for alfresco dining, new trees and greening, as well as improved junctions and crossing points. The council also plans to provide two-way cycling as part of the new measures. Works are expected to begin in Spring 2024, subject to a further consultation.
Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg, Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality, said:
“I’m pleased that Pimlico residents have supported these proposals which will see widened pavements and two-way cycling along two of the busiest streets in the area. This will improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, help to improve air quality, and create a more pleasant environment for residents and visitors.
“The hospitality industry is a vital part of the Westminster economy and alfresco dining measures were a lifeline for restaurants and bars struggling to stay afloat in the COVID pandemic. These new measures will allow alfresco dining to continue with the support of local residents.”
The consultation summary report can be found here.
Published: 18 May 2023