New al fresco zones could make for an easier process

Environment & Infrastructure has submitted a policy letter recommending changes to simplify the process for businesses who want to provide al fresco dining in certain areas in Town and the Bridge.

The current licensing system permits the licence holders to use the specified land for al fresco dining with legal authority, while ensuring that safety issues and other matters of public interest are taken into consideration.

‘We know how popular al fresco dining is and we wanted to make the application process more streamlined, without compromising on important considerations like safety,' said Environment & Infrastructure president Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez.

'This is ultimately aimed at making the process simpler for businesses, and facilitating something that is good for the sector and enjoyed by islanders and visitors. The positive response the idea has had so far is encouraging.’

The main proposal in the policy letter is the designation of al fresco zones. Any applications for sites falling within the al fresco zones would be made to Environment & Infrastructure for a permit, rather than to the Royal Court for a licence.

The effect would be the same, but the application would be processed more quickly than under the current system and would not require an advocate to represent applicants at court, simplifying the process and cutting costs.

Areas to be included within the al fresco zones would be determined and implemented only following a period of public consultation.

By doing the consultation during one period for all sites falling within the al fresco zones, the current requirement for applicants to consult multiple States departments, the public and the relevant constables will be mitigated, saving them time.

Any applications for sites falling outside the designated al fresco zones would stay under the current system. However, it is proposed that al fresco zones would be reviewed over time.

The existing application process for liquor licences is not proposed to change. Similarly, the current process for the handling of one-off applications for temporary road closures for al fresco, such as Seafront Sundays, would not change.

Traffic & Highways Services, Economic Development, Home Affairs and the Development & Planning Authority all support the proposals.