Agenda item

Report of the Director of Markets and Consumer Protection.

The Committee received a report of the Director of Markets and Consumer Protection providing a summary of pavement licences currently granted and outlining proposals for the continuation of pavement licence application process until 30 September 2023.

The Chair expressed his gratitude to the Chair and Deputy Chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee, as well as the Deputy Chair of the Licensing Committee, for opening communications between the two committees.

A Member queried how the Licensing Committee and the Planning and Transportation Committee were going to engage stakeholders in the extension of the pavement licence regulations going forward. Members were informed that there had not been sufficient time to hold a public consultation but were reminded that there is a consultation period for each pavement licence application, during which the statutory consultees and the public can raise any concerns about individual applications with the City Corporation’s Licensing Team. These concerns are then considered in the decision to refuse, grant or amend the application. Members were also informed that once the Levelling Up Bill has been passed in parliament, Officers will develop a permanent pavement licence policy and will consult with local stakeholders as part of this process.

A Member stated that the Committee should not underestimate the effect that the current pavement licence regulations have had in attracting visitors into the City of London and that there has been a noticeable increase in customers utilising outdoor seating within his ward between 11am and 3pm.

The Chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee stated that at the meeting he had with the Chair and Deputy Chair of the Licensing Committee, they discussed ensuring that planning and licensing applications are moving in tandem with each other. He stated that this process should involve consultation with all stakeholders, including residents. This view was endorsed by the Chair the Licensing Committee.

The Deputy Chair stated City of London residents were concerned by pavement licences granted for the later hours due to noise disturbance. She stated that the Committee will not understand the level of this concern until consultations with residents take place.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.