WORCESTER City Council are asking residents, businesses and visitors for their views on restaurants and bars putting tables and chairs outside.
During the Covid pandemic the rules were changed to make it easier for businesses to put seating outside their premises on public land, such as the pavement or high street.
Worcester City Council is responsible for issuing ‘pavement licences’ in the city and has published a new draft policy on how applications will be assessed and processed.
A public consultation has been launched and is available at worcester.gov.uk/voiceit until October, 9.
Coun Hannah Cooper, vice chair of the City Council’s place and economic development committee said: “Many Worcester businesses have benefitted from the new pavement licensing rules and I know people have enjoyed being able to have a cup of tea and a slice of cake outside in the bustling High Street or elsewhere in the city.
“On the other hand, we know that some people, such as wheelchair users and those with a visual impairment, may have challenges navigating around tables and chairs that have not been positioned in a considerate and sensitive manner.
“This consultation is about whether we’ve got the right rules in place for how we process pavement licensing applications, so I would encourage anyone who has a view on this to have their say.”
Printed copies of the consultation are available on request from the Guildhall in High Street or by calling 01905 722233.
