Temporary changes to planning and licensing procedures became law in 2020. Pavement Licences introduced a fast-track process to make it easier for premises serving food and drink to seat and serve customers as lockdown restrictions were lifted and social distancing guidelines remained in place.
On 22 July 2022 the Business and Planning Act 2020 (Pavement Licences) (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations 2021, came into force. These regulations extended the existing Pavement Licence provisions to 30 September 2023.
Please note that a renewal option for Pavement Licences was not incorporated into the Business and Planning Act 2020. Therefore all current licence holders must reapply for a licence as it is not possible to renew the licence.
Any licence granted after 22 July 2022 will be valid until 30 September 2023.
Please also read the Reducing the spread of respiratory infections, including COVID-19, in the workplace
How to apply
If you wish to utilise the pavement for trading you will need to complete and submit a Pavement Licence Application Form. Please download and complete the form, then save and send via email to licensing@merton.gov.uk.
Once the application is submitted you are required to make payment of the application fee. This is set at £100 and is non-refundable. Incomplete applications may be rejected. By submitting the application you are agreeing to the Standard Conditions for Pavement Licences.
Consultation
The application process requires a 7 day public consultation which beings on the day after an application is submitted (completed form and payment received). There is a legal requirement to place a clear public notice in an area easily visible to passers-by. You may use this Site Notice Template to assist you.
Street trading licences
For traders with existing street trading licences for forecourts, catering vans and market stalls, you will continue to be licensed as a street trader and you should renew your licence as normal.
Policy
Government guidance
GOV.UK guidance: pavement licences
Contact us
For any further queries, please get in touch with our licensing team at licensing@merton.gov.uk and we will respond to the enquiries as soon as we can.