Image credit: Just Vibez
This funding makes Brixton one of only four London areas to be awarded funding out of over 30 bids for the competitive fund, which will benefit nearly 200 businesses across Atlantic Road and Brixton Station Road—two of the area’s key cultural hotspots.
Since 2023, there have been 107 car-free days in Lambeth as part of the Big Shift and Streets Reimagined programme, with activations like family workshops, live music and extra seating for local businesses connecting residents and encouraging them to spend more time visiting and enjoying their local spaces and businesses.
Starting from July and running through to October, Lambeth Council, in partnership with local businesses, Brixton BID, and the Metropolitan Police, will expand its successful Car Free Days on Atlantic Road. Thanks to this additional funding, these events will extend past 6 pm for the first time, with extended restaurant operating hours and outdoor dining, live cultural activations such as music and street performers and enhanced cleaning and safety measures to maintain a welcoming night-time environment.
The initiative will also bring footfall and activities to Saturday evenings along Brixton Station Road, throughout August and September. A new open-access seating area for all, will offer relaxed, sociable spaces complemented by Brixton’s market stalls, food vendors, live performances, and cultural workshops—all designed to attract people and strengthen Brixton’s appeal as a dynamic place to enjoy summer nights.
The funding will help us work with local businesses and traders to increase their outdoor seating areas, help them trade into the evening and benefit from increased footfall. We’ll also invest in additional cleaning and stewards to help everyone feel welcomed and safe.
Councillor Marcia Cameron, Cabinet Member for Economic Inclusion at Lambeth Council, said: “Brixton thrives in the summer, and by expanding our evening dining and entertainment options, we’re creating more vibrant, welcoming spaces for the community to enjoy during those wonderful months. These initiatives will not only enhance the local experience but also provide a vital boost to our hospitality sector and wider local economy.”
Gianluca Rizzo, Managing Director at Brixton BID, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Brixton has been chosen for the Summer Streets programme. This additional investment is a good step forward in our mission to continue celebrating our district. With this funding, we can support our night-time economy and the hospitality sector, showcase our diverse culture, and ensure Brixton continues to be a distinctive destination after dark.”
As part of Lambeth’s broader Night Time Strategy, this summer’s programming reflects strong demand from local communities and businesses for a more diverse and inclusive nightlife. From live music on Atlantic Road to expanded outdoor dining and safety-focused investments in cleaning and security, these activations are laying the groundwork for long-term evening footfall and economic growth.
These investments aim to connect key local attractions—including Brixton Rec and Pop Brixton—by encouraging people to stay in the area later, spend more time with local traders, and experience Brixton in a whole new way.
The next Reimagining Atlantic Road event LatinXBrixton, led by Brixton BID as part of the council’s Big Shift programme is scheduled for 12 July. More evening event dates will be announced soon.
For performance, trading, or sponsorship opportunities- businesses, community groups, and individuals should email events@brixtonbid.co.uk for more information.
