Northampton town centre businesses can apply to have tables on pavement with no extra fees

Food and Drink businesses in Northampton town centre can now apply to serve customers al fresco by applying for pavement licences without any fees.

The government’s new Business and Planning Act 2020 came into force last month, designed to help hard-hit businesses sectors get back to work safely and quickly.

The act includes a temporary Pavement Licence which businesses can apply for via Northampton Borough Council – a scheme which permits pubs, cafes, bars, restaurants, snack bars, coffee shops, and ice cream parlours to place furniture outside their premises.

For more information or to apply, visit the borough council's website.It comes after pavements on St Giles Street in the town centre have also been temporarily widened for social distancing by closing off a stretch of parking bays - incidentally leaving more space for tables and furniture for businesses that want to take the chance.

Mark Mullen, operations manager of Northampton town centre BID said: “Pavement licence fees have been wavered so we are keen for all our BID businesses to take advantage of this opportunity, particularly those in St Giles Street where there is now newly created pavement space.

“Being able to serve food and drink outside makes it easier for town centre eateries to adhere to social distancing measures, with more space for their customers to enjoy themselves safely. This is really positive, especially for cafes and pubs in St Giles Street who might not have been able to participate before."