8 June 2009
Street café pilot scheme
A new street café and sign licensing scheme will be piloted in Bridgend town centre to improve its image and reduce clutter and obstruction for pedestrians.
Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet has approved the licensing programme which is aimed at giving a more continental, organised and pedestrian-orientated feel to Bridgend town centre.
It means traders will now need to apply to the council if they wish to have tables and chairs, A-boards or displays of goods outside their premises. A similar programme has been successfully carried out in Cardiff and Swansea city centres.
But in recognition of the current economic climate, the licence fees for the first 12 months of the Bridgend pilot will be waived.
The programme is being brought in following concerns that in some cases signs and furniture are being placed outside premises without consideration for neighbouring shops, access for emergency services or safety for pedestrians, especially those who are physically or visually impaired.
Cabinet also approved the development of an improved signage and visitor information scheme in partnership with town centre traders.
Council Leader, Councillor Mel Nott said: “This will bring some order to the town centre, especially for pedestrians, as well as enhancing the overall look of the town.
“I am especially pleased that the licence fees are being waived for the first 12 months which will help traders in these challenging economic times and give them the time and opportunity to adjust to this new scheme. I believe the end result will make the streets of Bridgend safer and more attractive which can only be good news for shoppers and businesses.”
- Last Updated: 08/06/2009
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