A new policy for longer opening hours at pop-up seating areas outside bars and restaurants could be expanded if a pilot is approved by councillors.
The scheme aims to respond to the cleanliness concerns of local communities and businesses as well as opening hours not being long enough by proposing a two-year trial of a new process.
So far permits would be available to venues on Buchanan Street, Argyle Street, Sauchiehall Street , St Enoch Square, Gordon Street, Royal Bank Place and Exchange Place.
The issue was discussed at a committee meting yesterday where councillor Angus Millar asked if there was potential to develop the scheme in other areas of the city.
He was informed by a council officer that the local authority hadn’t looked into the possibility in great detail but hoped that it would be an option.
A spokeswoman said: “We would hope to see the full city city centre benefit from this policy.
“We will keep a close eye on the policy to see how it evolves and consider how best to role it out.”
Steps will also be taken to engage with premises on Royal Exchange Square who have expressed an interest to be a part of the pilot.
More temporary cafes have opened in the City Centre as a result of the growth in restaurants, bars and cafes. The strategy aims to attract more people to the area by optimising trade hours.
Councillor Greg Hepburn, chairman of the neighbourhoods, housing and public realm committee at Glasgow City Council, said: “Our new street café policy is a huge positive for Glasgow City Centre, matching the city’s ambitions as a major European city and making the area more attractive for Glaswegians, visitors and investors.
“The policy will also bring benefits to our retail outlets, leisure facilities and cultural scene, bringing even more life to our major streets and avenues.
“Importantly, the proposals also ensure that the needs of city centre residents are taken into account, so that any particular concerns can be addressed and the street cafes can benefit everyone.”
The draft policy will be presented to the council’s city administration committee later this month, when a decision will be made on whether to proceed to public consultation, before returning for a final decision on the adoption of the policy.
