Exmouth Market traders face £800 fines over seating rules

Businesses operating outdoor seating in Exmouth Market, Clerkenwell, face potential fines of £800 if they do not comply with new regulations issued by Islington Council. The directive mandates a significant reduction in outdoor seating capacity, estimated by traders to be around 40 per cent, and requires a two-metre clearance between tables and the pavement, an increase from the current 0.8 metres.

Concerns over business viability

Traders in the popular London hotspot, which developed a strong al-fresco dining culture during the Covid pandemic, fear these changes could lead to insolvency. Gareth Kerr, owner of Cafe Kick, told The Times that a 40 per cent reduction in trade with only a two-week grace period puts many small businesses in real danger. He suggested dialogue should precede enforcement, stating, 'This isn’t McDonald’s.'

Sam Clark, a founder of Moro and Morito restaurants, described the street as one of the capital's best and called the restrictions 'counterproductive'. The Exmouth Market Traders Association has expressed objections to the suddenness of the directive and a perceived lack of consultation. Traders also reported that tighter restrictions implemented in August for evenings resulted in the market becoming like a 'ghost town'.

Council response

Islington Council informed the Islington Tribune that no formal enforcement action has yet been taken regarding tables and chairs licensing in Exmouth Market. The council stated that businesses wishing to have outdoor seating are welcome to apply for a licence, and several have done so recently. A council spokesperson added that they will continue to work with traders to promote understanding and compliance, ensuring a fair approach for businesses, residents, and other street users.

The council's application for pedestrianisation under the GLA's Summer Streets scheme this year was unsuccessful.