South Bank restaurants and pubs to benefit from ‘accessibility makeover’
The development work is part of a larger project by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, to improve access to some of London’s key attractions, particularly for those who have special accessibility needs.
The £220m Great Outdoors programme aims to improve over 50 of the capital’s public spaces in time for the Olympic Games next year. The measures include redesigned streets, which can be shared by both pedestrians and vehicles, reclaimed derelict green spaces and underused waterways.
Conducted in conjunction with local councils, businesses and residents’ groups, the development work aims to promote use of London’s attractions as well as its restaurants, cafes, bars and shops.
Olympics legacy
"London is such an extraordinary place to visit with something different around every corner and the South Bank is no exception. Every year millions explore its many attractions stretching from Jubilee Gardens along to Borough market and beyond,” said Boris Johnson.
“Historically and by the nature of the way this swathe of riverside has developed over the centuries it has never been the easiest area to navigate for visitors, especially those with accessibility needs.
“By making some simple but crucial changes to its streets and wider public realm we will make it considerably more accessible in time for the London Games. What better legacy than to use this opportunity to open up this fantastic area for anyone and everyone to enjoy."
Great Outdoors locations
The Great Outdoors programme will ultimately deliver improvements along a two mile stretch of the riverside between Tower and Westminster Bridges.
Key locations to benefit include Bankside, the Southwark Cathedral quarter and Clink Street, and the Globe theatre and Oxo Tower areas, which will see improved pavement layouts, better lighting and signage, increased seating, and more access ramps and handrails.
Accessibility guide
As part of the drive, the mayor recently launched a new website, InclusiveLondon.com, which aims to provide visitors to London with information about easy-to-access hotels, restaurants, pubs, museums and attractions.
The site, which will continue to run after the Games, allows people to post reviews and provide feedback on the featured venues. To add your venue to the website click here.
