RESIDENTS, shop and business owners are being urged to have their say on street cafes in Bromsgrove’s new look town centre.
Now the High Street has been redesigned as part of the regeneration, it has more capacity to accommodate outdoor seating areas outside cafes and restaurants.
Certain areas have been earmarked on the High Street for seating, but not the side streets of Chapel Walk, Mill Lane and Church Street.
Worcestershire County Council is currently in charge of licensing street cafes, but Bromsgrove District Council is proposing to take on the responsibility.
Officers have compiled a Street Amenity Policy which includes a set of rules on how it would regulate street cafés on the High Street, with regard to aspects such as where tables could be placed and cleanliness.
Coun Rita Dent, member for St John’s which covers the town centre, said it was important local traders and residents had their say on the proposals.
“The café culture is really taking off and it is great to see so many people sitting outside and enjoying food and drink in such a relaxed and sociable style.
“But it is important that pedestrians can still easily access the High Street and its shops and eateries and that outside dining continues to be a highlight of our town – not an eyesore.”
The council wants to hear from anyone who would be affected by street seating outside venues.
Those wanting to read the draft policy and comment on it should log onto www.bromsgrove.gov.uk and fill in the questionnaire under the ‘features’ section of the website.
