Free pavement café licences now available for Horsham District businesses

Many Horsham District hospitality businesses have been closed for months, but as they re-open, they are being given a boost to support their recovery plans as Horsham District Council can now offer short term consents to allow them to provide outdoor seating for customers free of charge.

Keen to support local cafes and restaurants, the Council has been swift to react to a change in legislation which went through Parliament on Monday 20 July allowing a waiver of the usual fees associated with tables and chairs licensing.

“We recognise that the next few months are going to be crucial for the hospitality industry, that is why we are committed to doing all we can to help businesses with their recovery plans.

“We are pleased that this change in legislation has been introduced and that we have been able to respond quickly to enable our District’s cafes and restaurants to have tables and chairs outside their premises free of charge.

“I would encourage as many businesses as possible to apply to us now to benefit from this.”

Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for the Local Economy and Parking Cllr Paul Clarke

To make a licence application, business owners are required to complete an online application form.

No business can operate any trading or provide outdoor tables and chairs without a consent licence in place, so an application must be made.

Visit the Council's information for businesses dedicated coronavirus page for further advice and support on reopening your businesses safely, and financial support available.