New pavement licences now available from the District Council

Businesses across Stratford-on-Avon District can now apply for the new pavement licences from Stratford-on-Avon District Council.

The Business and Planning Act 2020, introduced the new 'pavement licence' which received Royal Assent in July.

The new legislation introduces a new streamlined and cheaper route for businesses such as cafes, restaurants and bars to secure a licence to place furniture on the highway.

The purpose of this is to support businesses to operate safely while social distancing measures remain in place and to provide much needed income over the summer months, protecting as many hospitality jobs as possible.

How do I apply?

Businesses will need to complete the online application form - https://www.stratford.gov.uk/apply-for-pavement-licence

Additional documents needed with applications include:  

• A plan showing the location and size of the outside area being requested, with the table positions indicated on the plan.
• Photograph of the proposed furniture.
• Public Liability insurance - minimum of £5 million cover.
• Consent from adjoining premises if your proposed area crosses across any other premises/property.

Licences will be determined within two weeks, but if licence applications are not determined within this timescale they will automatically become granted and will run until 30 September 2021.

Licences can be issued for three months, six months or 12 months.

Cllr Anne Parry, Regulatory Portfolio at Stratford-on-Avon District Council says: "We know the next few months are going to be crucial for the hospitality industry, that is why we are committed to doing all we can to help businesses with their recovery plans.

"The new pavement licence will make it easier for businesses to put tables and chairs on the public highway, helping to support our local hospitality businesses and increase their current trading space whilst adhering to social distancing guidance. However, it is very important to follow guidance and keep customers and the public safe."

For more information please visit: https://www.stratford.gov.uk/pavementlicence

• On 22 July 2020, The Business and Planning Act 2020 gained Royal Assent and has come into immediate effect.
  
  
• The Business and Planning Act 2020 has been introduced to streamline the process for premises to apply for a street furniture or table and chair licence, known as a Pavement Licence under this new Act.
  
  
• This Act offers an opportunity for any premises selling food and/or drink to apply to use Highway land on a temporary basis to assist with being able to socially distance customers wishing to consume the purchased food or drink.
  
  
• This is a temporary licensing regime and applies until September 2021.
  
  
• The new process will take 10 working days.
  
  
• The current process to apply for a tables and chairs Licence is managed by Warwickshire County Council and takes 28 days for consultation plus processing time, which varies depending on the complexity of the application.