General information
A pavement licence is granted by the local authority, or deemed to have been granted, which allows the licence-holder to place removable furniture over certain highways adjacent to the premises in relation to which the application was made, for certain purposes.
Brentwood Borough Council supports and encourages the provision of street cafes in town centres and the larger villages within the district, as they make a positive contribution by adding vitality, colour, life and interest to the street scene. They can help maximize the use of public spaces, aid the local economy and add to the facilities offered to people who visit, live and work in the district.
Although each application is judged on its individual merits, Brentwood Borough Council does have an agreed Pavement Licence Policy pdf covering minimum standards and conditions against which the merits of an application could be judged, will promote consistency and benefit potential applicants and objectors, as well as assisting Members in making a decision to which there are objections.
When considering a licence application, Brentwood Borough Council will consider:
- public health and safety including security,
- public amenity – will the proposed use create nuisance to neighbouring occupiers,
- accessibility – taking a proportionate approach to considering the nature of the site in relation to which the application for a licence is made, its surroundings and its users, taking account of the facility causing no-obstruction, in particular considering the needs of disabled people, and whether there are other permanent street furniture or fixed structures in place on the footway that already reduce access; and
- other users of the space.
COVID-19 fast track application
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic the Government has introduced under the Business and Planning Act 2020 and associated guidance a streamlined process to allow businesses to secure pavement licences in time for the summer and, where they are deemed to have been granted, allow these licences to remain in place for a year but not beyond 30 September 2021. More information and the online application form can be found in this section.
Normal applications
Pavement licences are usually granted primarily under Part 7A of the Highways Act 1980. If you still wish to apply or renew your licence under the normal route, visit our visit our Applications - Highways Act 1980 page for more information and to apply online
It is important to note the grant of a pavement licence only permits the placing of furniture on the highway. Other regulatory frameworks still apply such as the need for alcohol licenses, planning requirements and the need to comply with registration requirements for food businesses.