Cafes, restaurants and bars can now apply for a licence to have seating outside their premises under a new streamlined procedure
The Business and Planning Act 2020 includes urgent provisions to make it easier for premises in England serving food and drink such as bars, restaurants and pubs to seat and serve customers outdoors through temporary changes to planning procedures and alcohol licensing. This is part of the Act’s aims of promoting economic recovery and growth in response to the economic impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The new process provides a streamlined and cheaper route for businesses such as cafes, restaurants and bars to secure a licence to place furniture on the highway. The aim of the legislation is to support businesses to operate safely while social distancing measures remain in place. The aim is to provide much-needed income over the summer months and protect as many hospitality jobs as possible.
Find out more and apply to Worcestershire Regulatory Services for a pavement licence.