South Kensington to become “must-visit destination” with seven-figure investment

Bute Street in South Kensington is getting a makeover this summer as part of the Council’s efforts to make “even more amazing spaces” in Kensington and Chelsea.

Since 2020, the street has been closed to traffic to allow shoppers to socially distance and diners to eat outside. Now with an investment of almost £1m the Council is making permanent changes to the street so that it can “thrive” with more market stalls and outdoor dining space for local restaurants.

The works to Bute Street include:

• A continuous, level footway and carriageway, paved in natural stone
• Additional planting to help improve air quality, including new trees
• Low-level planting and sustainable drainage, to intercept rainwater and help reduce potential flooding
• A new street layout to accommodate up to 22 market stalls for the Saturday farmers’ market
• Spill-out space for cafes and restaurants to cater for outdoor eating and drinking
• A new drinking water fountain.

Cllr Cem Kemahli, lead member for planning, place and environment, commented: “We want to create amazing spaces across the borough. Bute Street is already a bustling corner of South Kensington and with new trees, new paving and a new layout we can make it a must visit destination.

“When we consulted, people wanted more space for market stalls and a new drinking fountain; great ideas that we’ve incorporated into the designs. This transformation will make the road greener and safer for residents and visitors alike.”

Work starts today (Tuesday August 29) and is due to be complete by March 2024. Most of the work will take place Monday-Friday between 8am and 6pm. Some quieter works, such as laying paving stones, may happen at the weekends.

During the works the Council has said that it will be closing the road to all vehicles to keep everyone safe but businesses will be open as usual and pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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