SUMMER 2021 HOSPITALITY Optimising space for customers will help boost takings as hospitality venues look to recover from the pandemic As the UKs COVID-19 restrictions ease further, and the weather gets warmer, many hospitality businesses are gearing up to welcome more people through their doors. Cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants are looking to overturn the negative economic impact of the pandemic, and maximising space for their customers is a great way to increase revenue. The Business and Planning Act 2020 has made it easier for premises in England that serve food and drink to seat and serve customers outdoors, on the public highway. Businesses can obtain a licence for no more than 100 to temporarily place tables and chairs on the street It has introduced a streamlined consent process through which businesses can obtain a licence for no more than 100 to temporarily place tables and chairs on the street. Outside licences normally take at least 28 days, including a consultation period, to be processed by councils but the new licence, which lasts up to one year, could take just five workings days. If any objections are raised, an additional five working days would be needed to address the issues. Hospitality venues can also install additional outside structures to maximise capacity. As long as these are on land that the business owns or rents for example, a car park, courtyard or beer garden a pavement licence is not required. Even after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, some customers may still feel safer sitting outdoors, in structures that are more ventilated. Credit: John Harvey, Environmental Health officer/ contact tracer Image: iStock / ColobusYeti Businesses must ensure that any structures they erect are: nIncluded in risk assessments n Fire-retardant n Within the grounds in which they operate n No greater than 50 per cent enclosed (if a structure has temporary sides for example, a marquee these must be removed, not just rolled up) n Secured properly to prevent injury to people or damage to property in inclement weather. For more information, contact your local authority. For further information, please contact your local Trading Standards Service