Temporary pavement licences boost for Bognor Regis

Shoppers returning to Bognor Regis' London Road in June Photo by Derek Martin Photography SUS-200615-164219001

Restaurants, cafes and bars in Arun were given a much-needed boost after the district council introduced free licences to allow tables and chairs to be set up on pavements.

The licensing scheme, which will run until September 2021 was given the nod at a cabinet meeting in preparation for the government’s Business and Planning Bill, which was made law on Wednesday (July 22).

It will allow customers to maintain social distancing while giving businesses a shot in the arm as they fight to recover from the financially crippling lock-down.

Dr James Walsh, leader of the council, said: “Coming at the beginning of the potentially money making summer season for our local businesses, to allow them to have this rapid expansion of pavement licensing, and able to get more tables and chairs where appropriate outside their premises to encourage people to linger, spend money and refresh themselves, has got to be good for tourism, got to be good for local residents.”

Pauline Gregory, cabinet member for residential services agreed.

Describing the decision as a boost to the economy, she added: “This is definitely going to encourage visitors and locals to linger in the town centres and spend a bit more money and enjoy a meal or a drink.”

The meeting was told that Arun had worked with the other district and borough councils in West Sussex to agree a consistent approach to the new scheme.

And there was extra good news for the businesses.

Rather than having to apply to the county council for the licence – a process that took 28 days – the temporary licences would take only seven days to approve.

Nat Slade, head of technical services, stressed the need to ensure people – especially those in wheelchairs – had enough room to get past the tables and chairs.

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