Gov extends pavement licences to support hospitality

The government has confirmed plans to extend pavement licences for businesses on the high street.

Communities secretary Robert Jenrick intends to extend pavement licences for a further 12 months to help the hospitality industry recover from the imposed national lockdown.

Jenrick said: “We’re all looking forward to seeing pubs, cafes and restaurants open again as we start to gear up for what should be a great British summer.

“Therefore I’m delighted to announce an extension on temporary provisions for pavement licences for a further 12 months. This will give further certainty to businesses as they recover from the effects of the pandemic.”

On the recent decision, Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, said: “We wholeheartedly welcome the secretary’s decision which will enable many more hospitality businesses – such as pubs, bars, hotels, cafés and restaurants to reopen safely on 12 April for outdoor eating and drinking than would have been otherwise possible.

“It’s encouraging to see the government make clear that all such licences previously granted under these provisions should continue to apply beyond summer 2021, so that businesses do not have to reapply or be charged a further fee. We hope that all local authorities follow this direction and support their local hospitality businesses – as many did last year.”

She added: “We also welcome assurances that the right to erect marquees and awnings for two months without planning permission will remain in place for hospitality businesses. 

“It’s heartening to see the Secretary of State’s request that local authorities do all they can to support hospitality businesses as they re-open this spring and summer in line with the Government’s roadmap.”