Tooting's cafes and pubs may be able to host pavement seating

The government has announced a business and planning bill to support hospitality businesses to operate safely whilst social distancing measures are still in place.

Businesses such as; restaurants, pubs, cafes, bars and ice cream parlours, can apply for a pavement licence which will permit them to place removable tables and chairs on highways adjacent to their premises to sell or serve food or drink.

Licenses can be obtained within five working days as opposed to the current 28 days.

It is hoped that this temporary measure - which will be in place until the end of September 2021 - will provide hospitality businesses with much-needed income over the summer months.

Licences are free of charge and will be granted by the council.

Wandsworth Cllr Richards-Jones said: "To help businesses serve al fresco when opening in April we've simplified street licences and waived the normal fees."

You can find out more here.

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