People can once again enjoy an al-fresco dining experience this summer at Northcote Road's pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants when lockdown eases, after April 12.

Weekend pedestrianisation will offer plenty of space for outside tables and chairs in line with the government's re-opening roadmap.

Starting from April 17, Northcote Road will be pedestrianised at weekends throughout the summer period – with the empty road space being made available for businesses to operate whilst keeping safe distancing measures in place.

Cllr Aled Richards-Jones, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Skills and Employment, said: "We are delighted that we can once again create this additional outside space on Northcote Road, together with similar schemes on Old York Road and Battersea High Street.

"This will support the local popular and vibrant hospitality businesses to operate safely outdoors while Covid restrictions ease and assist businesses as they work to overcome the economic challenges created by the pandemic.

"With many businesses facing an uncertain future, Wandsworth Council do what we can to support them. Last year's temporary pedestrianisation schemes directly supported 200 hospitality jobs as well as others in the supply chain.

"As well as our hospitality business, we hope that retail businesses will benefit too from the increase in customer footfall that we saw during last year's pedestrianisations."

The Northcote Business Network added: "This will be a lifeline for many of the hospitality businesses in Northcote Road, and for some could make the difference between survival in 2021 or closing down. Northcote Road looks forward to welcoming people back to this popular street and will be working with the Council to make it as safe as possible."

The council has agreed to simplify the process of applying for a street licence and waive the normal fees.

This is to ensure hospitality businesses across the borough can lawfully access outside space and set up tables and chairs for their customers.

Pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants will wanting to use outside space will participate in a 'short consultation period' to ensure they behave responsibly and take steps to ensure their neighbours do not suffer noise disturbance.

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