Businesses granted pavement licences to help them continue trading during the pandemic are being invited to renew their applications for a second year.

The licences, introduced last summer, allow premises to set up tables and chairs in an outside area to enable customers to socialise and eat out safely, while boosting business.

Over the past twelve months, 69 cafés, pubs, bars and restaurants across Bath and North East Somerset have taken advantage of the pavement licence scheme and a further 79 businesses were granted regular tables and chairs permits offered before the pandemic.

Now Bath & North East Somerset Council is reminding current pavement license holders to renew their applications for the coming year and inviting new applications from qualifying businesses who have not yet applied.

Earlier this year Dark Horse in Kingsmead Square in Bath secured a tables and chairs permit. Louis Lewis-Smith who runs the Dark Horse said it provided a much-needed boost to the business: "The terrace at The Dark Horse has been hugely successful. This lifeline of being able to trade outdoors was very, very welcome and I'm thankful to those at the council who made the process easy and were understanding of our needs as a business."

Councillor Richard Samuel, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Resources and Economic Development said: "Businesses are still facing serious challenges and we need to offer as much support as we can to help them recover and flourish. Pavement licenses have proved an invaluable lifeline to many hospitality businesses during the pandemic, enabling them to open safely and cater for al fresco eating and drinking. I've been delighted to see many residents and visitors taking advantage of this, helping contribute to the recovery and vibrancy of our towns and city."

Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for Planning and Licensing, added: "We'll be contacting all current pavement licence holders shortly and inviting them to submit a further application. If you are considering applying but aren't sure whether your business qualifies, you'll find lots of helpful information on our website."