Mevagissey pub is given the go ahead to extend onto the pavement
The Kings Arms will be able to place tables and a barbeque outside so customers can maintain a safe social distance.
A pub in Mevagissey has been given permission to place tables and a barbecue on pavements outside.
The Kings Arms had applied to Cornwall Council for a pavement licence so it can continue to serve customers while restrictions are in place due to coronavirus.
Under temporary legislation the government has allowed businesses to extend out onto the pavements and streets to help them keep customers safe.
The act allows businesses to apply for a fast-track licence to operate from the pavement without the need for planning permission. Any businesses which sell food and drink are allowed to place furniture outside their premises.
The Kings Arms had applied for a pavement licence to place furniture outside the pub from 1pm to 8pm Thursday to Saturday. The licence would remain in place until September 30, 2021.
Helen Nathan, who runs the pub with her husband, said that they wanted to be able to welcome back customers.
During lockdown the pub had adapted by setting up a delivery service which saw them offering food and drink including items from their bakery.
But now the pub hopes to have customers back and wanted to put furniture outside to allow that.
Mrs Nathan said: “It is difficult to keep the business afloat at the best of times. This will hopefully allow us to get the business up and running again.”
She told the council’s licensing committee that the tables would only be used outside when they were cooking on a barbecue so they would monitor customers and ensure they were safe. Her husband would stay at the barbecue at all times when it was being used.
The plans would see two tables and four benches located on a paved area outside the pub.
Mrs Nathan added: “The chances are that it will be every now and again when the weather is in our favour. It is an added something.
“We have served the local community for almost six years. I would like to be able to welcome the community back to us with an outside area.”
The application had been backed by Mevagissey Cornwall councillor James Mustoe who said that it was a good example of how the temporary legislation could help local businesses.
Mrs Nathan said: “This is a small family business, a husband, wife and seven-year-old trying to serve the community.
“If we could have the opportunity to put a couple of tables and benches outside that would be lovely so that the locals can come back and see us.”
The licensing committee agreed to grant the licence on condition that the tables and benches do not block signage on the road; that it is limited to two tables and four benches; and that the barbecue is not left unattended at any time when in use.