Westminster Council says it contributes �1.bn to the economy each year and wants nearby streets to "reflect the quality of shows available".

Arts minister Estelle Morris, the council and the Society of London Theatres (SOLT) will discuss the ideas at a meeting later.

Plans include better lighting and provisions for coaches.

Richard Pulford from the SOLT told BBC News: "I think there's something slightly intimidating for almost everybody, in walking along very dark crowded streets particularly if there are perhaps some drunk people around.

"What we are trying to do is to help improve the environment so that all those people who are there for good purposes so to speak, feel more comfortable and feel better about being there."

The council wants to work on St Martin's Lane, Coventry Street, Strand Courts and the area's alleys.