A COUNCILLOR says he hopes a resolution can be found quickly after a row over pavement licenses.
The issue has seen a number of businesses write to Lichfield District Council over the “deeply unfair” measures after some were threatened with enforcement action after their outdoor seating – including on pedestrianised streets – was deemed to be to near the road.
The local authority’s leader, Cllr Doug Pullen, also urged officers not to put Lichfield’s cafe culture at risk.
Cllr Russ Bragger, Labour representative for Stowe ward, told a council meeting that a resolution that protected both businesses and pedestrians was now needed.
“Many businesses in the city centre are facing additional expenses and reduced trade as a result of the current situation.
“I hope a solution can be found to allow the businesses to prosper while giving proper access to those in wheelchairs, with limited mobility, with vision impairments and those with pushchairs.”
The latest battle over pavement seating enforcement comes more than a year after officers were told to halt enforcement over concerns about the impact on businesses.
Cllr Bragger said he was disappointed the situation had been allowed to repeat itself.
“Back on 18th November 2023 Lichfield Live carried an article about the leader instructing council officers not to enforce the rules – as it was known then that there would be a problem, there has been plenty of time to resolve the issues but the council leadership have failed to do so.”
