Southend businesses in favour of permanent outdoor license

The proposals outlined in the Queens’ speech yesterday (May 10) mean councils can give out ‘pavement licenses’ to businesses so they can set up tables and chairs for customers outside their premises.

Covid-19 restrictions in place last year saw restaurants, cafes and pubs which didn’t have outdoor areas handed temporary licenses to provide outside seating.

One businessman in favour of making the idea a permanent fixture is Adem Lacin, 32 and owner of Love Thy Burger, based on Southend High Street.

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He said: “It all helps especially in a seaside city.

"To not have to renew that every year will be a load of our mind.

“It would be good to see them creating that more European vibe in the city.

"You see there’s a lot of empty shops at the moment so that will be really good for Southend.”

He added: “The High Street at night can be pretty bleak so if they improve that area and create this nice atmosphere I don’t see why people wouldn’t want to come down.”

Further down the road, Antony Tomassi, 66-year-old owner of Tomassi’s restaurant, is also in favour of the proposals.

He said care needed to be taken in how outdoor areas were created, however, to avoid cluttering.

“I think it’s a good idea but it does need to have some form of control.

"You can’t just allow chairs and tables onto the High Street where there’s not specific areas for them.

Staff at Tomassi's preparing to welcome back customers last year

“It has to be a case-by-case basis.

"Some areas can be accommodated but not all areas can.

"You need to make sure the environment is improved because of it.”

Ashley Oglina-Beecham, manager of Southend BID which works with city centre businesses to raise their profile, believes the concept will be beneficial over the coming weeks.  

He added: “Al fresco dining becoming more commonplace and accessible in Southend would be fantastic.

“This summer, Southend will be a popular destination; visitors and locals being able to enjoy lovely weather whilst dining out would certainly add vibrancy to the area.”