The government has begun a consultation into making some permitted development rights for al fresco dining and other outdoor hospitality spaces permanent, extending measures put in place during the pandemic to aid the industry’s recovery.
Under the proposals, street markets, pub marquees and additional seating could become permanent fixtures for the industry.
The government is seeking views on the right for markets to be held by or on behalf of councils for an unlimited number of days, including the provision of related moveable structures.
Another measure that is being consulted on is the right for moveable structures on the grounds of pubs, cafes, restaurants and historic visitor attractions, first introduced for listed buildings in April this year.
Many councils look set to end al fresco schemes, including Westminster City Council, which intends to reopen roads around Soho that have been closed off from traffic to provide outdoor dining space.
The consultation also looks at new permitted development rights to support increased accommodation, workspace and training facilities at Ministry of Defence sites to “reduce the pressure on local authorities”.
This involves expanding single living accommodation and supporting infrastructure at their military sites by up to 25%, and their work and training spaces by up to 35%.
Where the proposed footprint on site would exceed 43,000 sq ft, permitted development rights would be subject to prior approval with the local authority in relation to the siting and scale of the work.
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