Weigh up the cost of sitting outsideIf you want to put seating on pavements outside your outlets, be aware that in most cases
planning permission and highways consent is needed.
With the summer approaching and the hopeful anticipation of some good weather, pub, cafe and restaurant owners will be looking to increase seating and maximise sales by using outdoor tables and chairs where possible. However, it is not as simple as just buying some furniture and putting it outside on the pavement in front of your outlet. In the majority of cases planning permission is required, as is highways consent – a licence variously called a pavement cafe licence, tables and chairs licence or alfresco dining licence.
This year there has been a lot in the press about the cost of such licences. The cost varies across the country. Each individual council can determine the fee payable but it is safe to say that costs have increased in many areas. There are reports that in some streets Torbay Council, for example, has increased their rates by 600% leaving one bar owner’s costs rising from £1,000 to £7,000 per year. You should find out about the cost in your area as it is obviously only worth using an outdoor seating area if it boosts profits.
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http://www.hospitalitylaw.co.uk/weigh-up-the-cost-of-sitting-outside/