Following the rushing through Parliament of the Business and Planning Bill 2020, Head of Trinity's Licensing team, barrister Charles Holland co-authored a guide to the new "Pavement Licence" regime for the benefit of NEXSTART (the National Exit Strategy Advice & Response Team for the Hospitality and Entertainment Industry).
Charles and fellow contributors, barristers Sarah Clover and Leo Charalambides, have recently updated the guidance that can be downloaded here.
The Business and Planning Bill introduces a new “Pavement Licence” enabling businesses selling food and drink to apply to local authorities for permission to put tables and chairs outside their restaurants, bars and cafes, in turn promoting social distancing. This temporary measure avoids the vast array of consents ordinarily required, including planning, Highways Act and street trading legislation.
NEXSTART is made up of a wide range of organisations each representing those affected by COVID-19 and was set up as a direct response to the impact of the pandemic. In its mission statement NEXSTART is described as "a coalition of experts working together to identify issues, work to find solutions, contribute to guidance, and act as a resource to support a national strategy for the safe and successful exit of this industry from lockdown. NEXSTART seeks to balance the needs of the public, business and enforcement authorities."
NEXSTART has a diverse and growing range of member organisations including: Night Time Industries Association, Institute of Licensing, British Institute of Innkeeping, CAMRA, British Beer and Pub Association, National Outdoor Events Association, Association of Independent Festivals, National Association of Licensing Enforcement Officers (NALEO), Tourism Alliance, Greater London Authority and London Councils.
COVID-19
In response to the impact of the Coronavirus crisis, Chambers' Licensing barristers and staff are committed to providing as much assistance as possible, including urgent advice, resources and support in dealing with remote, in person and hybrid hearings. Members of the team can assist in all aspects of Licensing issues arising from the pandemic and its impact on Local Authorities, Police Authorities, Businesses and individuals. For further details, please contact the clerking team on 0191 232 1927 or by email civilclerks@trinitychambers.co.uk