City Corporation extends outdoor dining measures

The extension of the scheme, funding for which has been approved by the City Corporation’s Licencing Committee, will allow those businesses whose six-month pavement license is about to expire to re-apply free of charge.

Since August last year, a total of 58 applications were lodged for the pavement licence – of which, 40 were granted.

A variety of factors are considered before the licenses are granted - including the width of space available, footfall of pedestrians, any queues likely to form for nearby shops and attractions and the maintaining of space for those with access needs.

“The majority of establishments which wanted to take up the offer to reinstate their pavement licences have been able to do so and it remains vitally important that these outdoor dining options are retained wherever it is appropriate," says Alastair Moss, chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation.

“As soon as current Government restrictions are eased, we expect to see a return of workers and visitors to an even-better Square Mile – issuing these free of charge pavement licences will mean the City can once again be enjoyed by all as the weather improves.

“We know that our world-class venues will be very excited to welcome people back and this decision will let them do so.”