Licensing newsletter to businesses - 12 April
Under the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions)(England) Regulations 2020 many licensed premises have been forced to close. Guidance has been produced for businesses and premises to close during the ‘emergency period’. Please see our business support and guidance section on this page for more information on grants, funding and further Government support. Business and Planning Act 2020
Off sales provision
The Business and Planning Bill 2020 allows a temporary relaxation of the off sales provision. Please read the full guidance on new temporary off sales permission. This provision will be in place until 30 September 2021.
Section 172F Statement for displaying in premises.
Tables & Chairs Pavement Licence
To support businesses with social distancing the Government has passed a bill to allow tables and chairs to be placed on the pavement in front of premises serving food and drink. Please read more details on guidance and how to apply on our street trading page.
Taxis and private hire vehicles
We know that some drivers are continuing to work and provide a vital service to the public, and this puts you at risk. In view of the currently high rates of Covid transmission we want to support and remind you of the need to protect yourself, in addition to doing all you can to prevent the spread of the infection.
Drivers are strongly recommended to wear a face mask whilst carrying passengers in their vehicle (unless it affects your ability to drive safely) and having a window open for ventilation.
Passengers must wear a face mask at all times, unless exempt. We appreciate that this is hard to enforce but you are permitted to refuse a customer if you are not satisfied that they are exempt from having to wear a mask.
There is full guidance for taxi and private hire drivers and operators on the Government’s taxis webpage.
Contact
For more information, please email the Licensing team licence@hart.gov.uk