By Isle of Wight Observer
More flexibility around licensing processes to allow businesses to get back on their feet has been welcomed by MP Bob Seely.
As part of its plan to revive high streets, support the hospitality industry and help get people back to work, the Government has announced a number of urgent measures which it says will help businesses by removing short term obstacles that could get in their way.
The Government said the measures – set out in the Business and Planning Bill – would do the following:
- simplify and reduce the costs of the licensing process for outdoor seating and stalls.
- remove the need for planning applications for outdoor markets, pop-up car-boot sales and summer fairs.
- allow pubs and restaurants to use car parks and terraces as dining and drinking areas, using their existing seating licenses.
- allow more licensed premises, such as pubs and restaurants, to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises
- through temporary changes to licensing laws.
Bob said: “These measures are welcome and will help Isle of Wight pubs, restaurants and cafes to adapt their operations so that they can welcome back residents and visitors during the summer season.
“We want visitors to be able to enjoy their time on the Island. The relaxing of the red tape will help businesses to make that possible but in a Covid-secure way.
“I encourage the Isle of Wight Council to do all it can to help businesses with licensing processes.”
