SCORES of businesses across the conurbation face a race against time to ensure they can retain outdoor seating areas installed since the start of the pandemic.

Many venues took the opportunity to use temporary legislation brought in by the government to obtain pavement licences.

A total of 142 licences were granted through this channel during the pandemic.

The move by the government allowed for applications to be fast tracked at a reduced cost for establishments that did not have a licence and, due to social distancing, required outside seating.

The Business and Planning Act 2020 temporay legislation licences expire at the end of September and cannot be renewed.

Any business with a pavement licence under this act must submit a new application under Highways Act legislation at a cost of £250 if it wants to retain its outdoor seating. These applications will include a 28-consulation and a £250 fee. They also have to be re-applied for on a yearly basis.

Cllr Nicola Greene, BCP Council's portfolio holder for council priorities and delivery, said: “Since this new temporary legislation was introduced in 2020, we are pleased to say that many businesses have made use of the legislation which helps to maximise outdoor space directly outside their premises.

“In addition, the fast-track process is at a reduced cost as businesses continue to recover from the financial impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Since 2020 at the introduction of the legislation, a total of 174 Highway Licenses have been granted and 142 granted under the Business and Planning Act.”