Covid 19 - What you need to know - Housing Minister considering #UKGrandOutDoorCafe

It has been reported that the Housing Minister, Rt Hon Christopher Pincher, is considering the calls by the #UKGrandOutDoorCafe campaign, to allow local authorities to permit hospitality operators to use open spaces and squares around their venues to serve food and drink.

The scheme, led by Piano Works founder Alan Lorrimer, is supported by UKHospitality and a number of other operators.

Under the proposals, operators would be allowed the flexibility to extend their current licensing conditions and trading hours with no additional fees charged until September. Selected areas would become designated pedestrianised zones, allowing the public to follow ‘physical distancing’ advice while enjoying meals and drinks with members of their household safely.

We have previously reported that Vilnius, Lithuania's capital, was to be turned into a "giant open-air café" after local authorities agreed to allow bars and restaurants to set up tables outside free of charge to comply with physical distancing regulations.

To support the campaign, visit http://www.ukgsoc.org/.