Residents, businesses and visitors of Worcester have been called upon to give their feedback on the placement of tables and chairs outside of restaurants, cafes and bars.
The regulations were temporarily altered in 2020 during the Covid pandemic to assist venues in accommodating more customers outdoors.
With these rules now made permanent by the government, Worcester City Council, which is responsible for issuing ‘pavement licences’ in the city, has drafted a new policy outlining the processing of applications.
A public consultation has been launched for individuals to express their thoughts on the draft policy, accessible at www.worcester.gov.uk/voiceit until Wednesday, October 9.
Printed versions can be requested from the Guildhall or by calling 01905 722233.
Councillor Hannah Cooper, vice chair of the city council’s place and economic development committee, said: “Many Worcester businesses have benefitted from the new pavement licensing rules and I know people have enjoyed being able to have a cup of tea and a slice of cake outside in the bustling High Street or elsewhere in the city.
“On the other hand, we know that some people, such as wheelchair users and those with a visual impairment, may have challenges navigating around tables and chairs that have not been positioned in a considerate and sensitive manner.
“This consultation is about whether we’ve got the right rules in place for how we process pavement licensing applications, so I would encourage anyone who has a view on this to have their say at www.worcester.gov.uk/voiceit.”