Peterborough restaurants and pubs can apply for outdoor seating ahead of café culture launch

In response to Covid-19 the Government introduced the Business and Planning Act 2020 to promote economic recovery and growth in the hospitality industry.

This means that businesses which meet the qualifying criteria can take advantage of a new fast-track application process for a pavement licence to set up removable furniture outside of their premises.

The fast-track process (with approvals given in just 14 days) has been introduced for restaurants, bars and pubs to apply for a pavement licence without the need for planning permission. A pavement licence, when granted, allows the licence holder to place removable furniture on pavements and streets outside the building.

A pavement licence does not give permission for those who do not hold a premises licence under the Licensing Act 2003 to serve or sell alcohol or provide regulated entertainment.

The new pavement licence is temporary with all licences expiring on or before September 30.

A number of businesses in the city have already applied for a pavement licence including Five Guys, Pizza Express, Prezzo and The Queen’s Head.

The city council has already announced plans to bring in a ‘café culture’ in Peterborough from April.

For more information on how to apply for a pavement licence and on the qualifying criteria, visit the council’s website at: https://www.peterborough.gov.uk/business/licences-and-permits/apply-for-a-licence/street-cafe-consent.

Ahead of the planned easing of restrictions currently scheduled for April 12 business are also being reminded of the importance of their staff taking regular (twice weekly) lateral flow tests once they reopen for business. To find out more about national recommendations for businesses and rapid testing in Peterborough, visit: https://www.peterborough.gov.uk/healthcare/public-health/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-rapid-community-testing.