The news that more pubs, restaurants and cafes will be able to serve customers outdoors in plans announced by the government has been welcomed by Trafford Conservatives. A new law means that the government is simplifying and reducing the costs of the licensing process for outdoor seating and stalls, making it easier for people to safely drink and dine outside. Customers will also be able to buy their drinks from a pub and consume them elsewhere, making social distancing easier. Pubs and restaurants will also be able to use car parks and terraces as dining and drinking areas, using their existing seating licenses.
The changes being introduced for the hospitality sector will also reduce the consultation period for applications for pavement licences from 28 calendar days to 5 working days, and grant consent after 10 working days if the council does not issue a decision In addition, there will be a new lower application fee for a pavement and street cafe licence of up to £100.
In addition, new planning freedoms will mean that outdoor markets, pop-up car-boot sales or summer fairs will not need a planning application, which will transform the way people shop and socialise.
Cllr. Dave Morgan, Shadow Executive Member at Trafford Council for Housing and Regeneration said “These measures will give an immediate and much needed boost to many businesses, whilst supporting them to successfully reopen over the summer. This builds on support introduced by the government in March allowing many food and drink business, including pubs, to offer a takeaway service. Additionally, these changes will support hospitality staffs return to work safely, revive businesses and provide a real boost to our high streets affected by the pandemic.
“These timely changes are great news for businesses and will benefit residents too by enabling people to socialise this summer and enjoy the best of Trafford hospitality in a COVID-secure way. Trafford Council will be writing to all licensed premises in the next few days with guidance and links to various webpages detailing how they can take up these new opportunities. I would encourage all eligible businesses to take advantage of this creative government scheme to help stimulate the Trafford economy.”
