Published: Thursday 24 August 2023
Bustling Bute Street in South Kensington is getting a makeover this summer as part of our 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 £1million 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 said:
“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.”
When will the work start?
Work starts on Tuesday 29 August 2023 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 we’ll 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.
Bute Street Farmers’ Market
The Saturday Farmers’ Market is relocating just around the corner to Queensbury Way throughout the works. You can still visit every Saturday 9am until 2pm.
Read more about the consultation into changes to the street on our consultation pages. If you are a resident or business and need to speak to someone about the scheme contact [email protected].