Purpose

To agree to proceed with consultation on the proposed adoption of a draft North Yorkshire Pavement Licence Policy.

Decision

The content of the draft Pavement Licensing Policy was considered and the commencement of a six-week public consultation was approved.

Reasons for the decision

The adoption of a Pavement Licensing Policy enables the Council to effectively regulate the placement and use of removable furniture on the public highway. The policy is intended to ensure that such furniture is utilised in a manner that is safe, convenient, and does not give rise to public nuisance. It further seeks to preserve unobstructed access to the highway for all users, while facilitating the creation of vibrant public spaces and supporting businesses in operating in a way that is both responsible and acceptable to the wider community.
A public consultation is good practice to receive feedback on the draft policy from the public and the trade.

Alternative options considered

Although the Council is not legally required to adopt a Pavement Licensing Policy, the implementation of such a policy offers significant governance and operational advantages. A formally adopted policy provides a transparent framework that holds the Council accountable for its decisions and actions, promotes consistency in the determination of applications, and ensures that both citizens and stakeholders are furnished with clear, accessible guidance. Moreover, it reinforces public confidence in the Council’s licensing processes by demonstrating a commitment to fairness, transparency, and good administrative practice.