Fast-track pavement licences have been introduced in Derby to help more of the city’s pubs and cafes reopen after the coronavirus lockdown.
Derby City Council has introduced ‘permissive pavement licences’ to help venues reopen while still observing social distancing rules.
The authority said it hoped the move would allow the city’s street café culture to become more widespread as more venues bring their services outdoors.
Outside licences would normally take at least 28 days to be processed, including a consultation period.
However, the new licence, which will last up to one year, could take just five workings days to process after the initial site visit and subject to receiving no objections.
If objections are received, there will be an additional five working days to address the issues raised.
If objections are not resolved then the licence will not be granted. The licence will be reviewed every three months and will cost the business £100.
Councillor Mick Barker, the city council’s cabinet member for governance and licencing, said: “We’re doing what we can to support local businesses and help our local economy recover after the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We recognise the positive contribution that street cafes in our city can make, both to the local economy and for those people who visit, work and live in Derby.
“By accelerating the application process for a licence, this may help more local cafes and pubs open their doors to customers sooner.”
