Pavement table licence fees axed

Credit: EBC

Cafe lovers across Erewash can look forward to a more continental-style vibe as the weather warms up – after the borough council voted to scrap its charge for eateries and pubs that put tables out on pavements.

The new boost for the local hospitality sector includes budgeting £2,400 to refund businesses that bought licences from the end of August last year.

Cllr Mark Alfrey – whose remit as Erewash’s Lead Member for Environment includes licensing – said: “Enjoying the buzz of the street scene while relaxing at an outside table is one of life’s great pleasures. Residents are used to savouring the al fresco experience when they go on holiday abroad – so why not here?

“We are determined to do all we can to get our high streets thriving. This is a clear example of a way we can help – since the £400 price for a two-year pavement licence and the £300 charge to renew one were undoubtedly putting many eateries off having tables outside.”

The licence fee refunds will come from the Erewash Investment Fund – which was launched by the council last year to plough millions into enhancing local communities.

A report to a meeting of the town hall’s Licensing and Public Protection Committee – which voted to ditch the charges – said: “The council is mindful of the pressures being faced by the hospitality sector and is committed to supporting local businesses wherever it can.”

A licence – albeit a free one – will continue to be necessary when pubs and cafes want to set up “removeable furniture on the highway adjacent to their premises”. Officials explained this was because the council “will still be required to consult with the Highways Authority for the area (that is Derbyshire County Council), the police and any other person it considers appropriate.”

The report to the committee stressed: “When assessing a pavement licence application, the council will ensure that the placement of furniture and any associated demarcation barriers on to the highway considers and seeks to avoid obstructions to pavement users who may have disabilities such as wheelchair or mobility users or the visually impaired.”

One cafe which is popular with Long Eaton shoppers – is among businesses with outside tables that are in line for a refund. Delighted manager Lia Ward said of no longer having to pay for a licence: “This is a welcome move by the council to help small businesses like ours and to get more people coming into the town.”