Regular patrols in Hart "to support a safe environment" as pub gardens reopen today
The District Council's Environmental Health team will be checking on venues
Last updated 12th Apr 2021
Hart District Council have said their Environmental Health team will be working alongside the police as pubs and restaurants reopen outdoors today as part of the latest easing of coronavirus restrictions.
The council says while there is no curfew and alcohol does not need to be accompanied by a meal, social contact rules still apply, and food and drink need to be ordered at the table, and eaten and drunk whilst seated.
It says regular daytime and evening patrols will take place "to support a safe environment."
The council is also extending the provision of pavement licences until September 2022 to make it easier for venues to set up al fresco dining areas.
And measures introduced to support the hospitality sector to serve takeaway food will continue to apply until March 2022 so existing registered businesses can offer the service immediately without waiting for the usual 28-day period for the application to be processed.
Dympna Sanders, Environmental Health Manager, said: "We are looking forward to seeing pubs, cafes and restaurants open again and will be working with the business community to make re-opening successful and safe.
"With the green shoots of spring emerging, the great success of the UK's vaccination programme and the greater availability of coronavirus testing, we hope for a brighter and more sociable 2021."