Pubs, cafes and restaurants will find it easier to provide outdoor seating areas thanks to a “streamlined” licensing process.

Enfield Council will allow a “grace period” in which businesses can use tables and chairs outside their premises while their application for a street trading licence is being determined – as long as they do not cause an obstruction.

It says it will also charge a “small administrative fee” of £100 for licences.

Council chiefs hope the move will boost businesses that were forced to close their doors for more than three months due to the coronavirus lockdown.

Hospitality businesses were allowed to reopen on July 4, with extra measures in place to promote social distancing.

Cabinet member for regulatory services Cllr George Savva (Labour, Haselbury) said: ”Enfield Council is doing everything it possibly can to support business and make it easier for them to reopen safely, and find alternative and innovative ways of delivering the services they offered before lockdown hit.

“Enfield Council’s licencing plans to allow businesses to trade outside with tables and chairs is part of our package of measures for our town centres to help residents enjoy Enfield safely.”

Business owners can find out more here: https://new.enfield.gov.uk/services/business-and-licensing/covid-19-guidance-for-employers/

They can also apply for street trading licences here: https://new.enfield.gov.uk/services/business-and-licensing/street-trading/