The Licensing Committee of Horsham Council met on Monday 17 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, with the primary focus on the licensing of tables and chairs in public spaces. The committee approved the minutes of previous meetings and discussed the implications of new licensing policies for local businesses.

Tables and Chairs Licensing

Officer Mark Rankin introduced the main agenda item concerning the licensing of tables and chairs within the town centre of Horsham. The discussion revolved around the transition from temporary concessions under the Business and Planning Act 2020 to a formal statutory framework. The new policy allows the council to license tables and chairs across the district, not just within the town centre.

Rankin clarified that the historical fees included an application fee and a one-year license fee. The new proposal maintains a £500 application fee and introduces a £350 renewal fee for a two-year license, effectively offering savings for local businesses. He noted that the overall income for the council would remain approximately the same, despite some businesses like Bills taking on additional space.

Councillor Jay Mercer raised concerns about the space left for pedestrians and cyclists when tables and chairs are placed on pavements. He advocated for higher standards than the legal minimum to ensure public safety and accessibility. Rankin assured that the council would work with West Sussex County Council to meet these standards and that enforcement would be managed through regular compliance visits and public reporting mechanisms.

The committee recommended several actions to the cabinet, including adopting the new pavement licensing policy, authorising minor amendments by the Head of Environmental Health and Licensing, and setting the new fees effective from 17 July 2024.

For more details, you can refer to the Public reports pack and the Tables and Chairs Licensing document.