Outdoor dining set to stay in high street regeneration push
Outside dining is set to become the norm in the UK even after Covid-19 restrictions are lifted as the government seeks to push forward with its “levelling-up” agenda.
In a speech next week, Boris Johnson will lay out his plans for regenerating the country’s high streets, which have been in slow decline for years.
After the success of various pedestrianisation schemes during the pandemic, al fresco dining will become the norm, with pavement licences to be extended and then made permanent, he is expected to announce.
In addition, Takeaway pints will continue for another 12 months as the temporary permissions for off-sales of alcohol are extended.
This will give a further boost to the hospitality industry as local residents enjoy a great British summer together outdoors.
Following England’s success at the Euro 2020 football championships, the PM will also unveil a £25m of new funding for sports facilities. That’s the equivalent of 50 new artificial sports pitches.
The announcements will form part of a larger speech on levelling up the country after the pandemic.
A government spokesperson said: “The Prime Minister is determined to level up the UK and deliver a fairer, stronger society – one where whatever your background and wherever you live, everyone can access the opportunities they need to succeed.
”While talent and potential is distributed evenly across this country, opportunity is not.
“That’s why as we emerge from the pandemic, it’s vital that we do not make the mistakes of recovery from the financial crash and seize this moment to ensure a better quality of life for people in every part of the UK.”