Lower Marsh secures £100,000 for summer film screenings and outdoor seating

Lower Marsh in Waterloo will host two free outdoor film screenings this summer, funded by £100,000 from the Mayor of London’s Summer Streets Fund. The events, scheduled for 29 August and 26 September 2026, are part of a wider programme to expand outdoor dining and cultural activities in the area.

Lambeth Council secured the maximum funding for the second consecutive year. The money will also pay for additional outdoor seating, street decorations and improved lighting along Lower Marsh, a largely pedestrianised street behind Waterloo station.

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Traffic-free Saturdays extended

Since June 2026, Lower Marsh has been closed to traffic every Saturday from 9am to 9pm. The street was already pedestrianised during weekday market hours. The council said the extended closures would allow businesses and visitors to make better use of the outdoor space.

Councillor Michael Chessum, Lambeth Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, Cost of Living and Empowered Communities, said the changes would bring economic and social benefits. "Waterloo is one of London’s cultural capitals," he said. "We want to open our streets up to people and think differently about how these spaces can be used."

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We want to open our streets up to people and think differently about how these spaces can be used.

Councillor Michael Chessum, Lambeth Council

Support for local businesses

WeAreWaterloo, the business improvement district delivering the programme, said the funding would help hospitality businesses capitalise on the Saturday road closure. Kate Poulter, WeAreWaterloo’s Chief Executive, said the additional seating and cultural events would encourage visitors to stay longer in the area.

Lower Marsh has hosted a market since the early 19th century. The council said the summer programme would draw more people to the street, which has become known for its outdoor dining scene.

Night-time economy strategy

The Summer Streets programme aligns with Lambeth’s Night Time Economy Strategy, which aims to increase evening events in public spaces. London’s Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries, Justine Simons, said the fund would help boroughs and businesses make the most of London’s high streets and public spaces.

Details of the film screenings and other events are available on WeAreWaterloo’s Eventbrite page. The programme runs until the end of September 2026.