Following the government announcement on 23 June which set out further changes to lockdown measures in England, from Saturday 4 July pubs, restaurants, cafes, and hairdressers amongst other sectors, will be able to reopen providing they are COVID secure.
To help businesses ensure there is enough space to operate safely, we have created a business restart toolkit which includes updates on food safety and licensing where the government has issued enhanced guidance on licence and permit guidance – enabling the creation of 'pavement' cafes for premises who have the space to do so.
As well as offering individual business advice, we have worked in partnership with Cambridgeshire County Council, to offer a simplified fast-track application process (when the proposed Business and Planning Bill comes into force later in July) to apply for temporary licence measures relating to pavement licences for provision of food and drink, minimising costs and expediting the current pavement licence process for placing tables and chairs outside of premises such as pubs, cafes, restaurants and other food and drink outlets.
Executive Leader of Huntingdonshire District Council, Cllr Ryan Fuller said "Businesses have experienced the toughest few months they are likely to ever face but as Huntingdonshire takes its first major steps in recovery, it is vital we as a local authority help assist businesses to be in the best position to be able to safely trade again.
"Throughout the lockdown closure period the council, as the licensing authority, has maintained an open dialogue with businesses and will be exercising its discretion on a case-by-case basis to try and swiftly help re-establish day-to-day operations for businesses.
"This weekend is likely to see more residents going out to shop and visit locally than the district has been used to in the last few months. The measures we are putting in place in town centres to maintain social distancing are there to make sure people stay safe but can also enjoy renewed freedoms."
Chief Inspector Nick Skipworth, Cambridgeshire Constabulary, said: "The Constabulary has worked with partners to offer advice as the easing of restrictions continues and our night-time economy begins to reopen. Our officers will be on hand to continue that support over the weekend and beyond, engaging with people and encouraging them to adhere to the latest social distancing guidelines.
"We continue to encourage people to respect the guidelines put in place by pubs and restaurants and recognise that the pandemic is not over. We want people to enjoy themselves this weekend but to do so responsibly and we will not tolerate crime or anti-social behaviour."
We are continuing to work closely with local businesses, town councils, Federation of Small Businesses, Chamber of Commerce as well as engaging with Cambridgeshire County Council Highways to prepare for a ‘new normal’ look in Huntingdon, St Ives, St Neots and Ramsey town centres.
To find out more about a temporary licence needed for pavement seating, you can visit our dedicated Pavement Licences page. Businesses and employers can access the latest information and guidance on how to safely reopen by visiting our Business Restart Toolkit page.