The Licensing Appeals Committee met to consider a single item of business, an application from Derbyshire Dales District Council for a new pavement licence scheme. They voted to approve the scheme subject to a number of changes.

Pavement Licence Scheme

The meeting was to consider a report on a proposed pavement licence scheme for the District. The scheme would create a way for businesses to apply for a licence to put tables and chairs on the pavement outside their business.

Speaking in favour of the scheme, a council officer described pavement licences as,

a fantastic opportunity to support our high streets.

The officer went on to say that

we've looked at best practice from around the country

when designing the scheme.

Councillors raised a number of questions about the scheme, in particular about its impact on disabled people. One Councillor highlighted the need to ensure that there was sufficient space on the pavement for wheelchair users to pass by, saying

I think we need to be very mindful of that.

The committee ultimately decided to approve the scheme with a start date of 1st October 2024, subject to the following changes:

• The removal of the ability for applicants to pay an annual fee. Applicants would be charged per-table, per-month, with no option for an annual payment.
• The scheme would be reviewed after 12 months.
• The scheme would be accompanied by guidance for businesses setting out the standards expected of them.