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Aug 2020

Last Updated: 14/08/2020

Harrogate bars want alfresco drinking and dining to be permanent

by Connor Creaghan

| 14 Aug, 2020

They do not know when the scheme will end but suspect that it might come to a close as social distancing rules relax further.

Yorkshire Hotel has taken full advantage of the temporary outdoor seating rules.

Two Harrogate bars and restaurants have seen a boost as a result of temporary alfresco drinking and dining and want it to become the new normal.

Both the Blues Bar and the Yorkshire Hotel have taken full advantage of the temporary relaxing of rules around alfresco dining.

They do not know when the scheme will end but suspect that it might come to a close as social distancing rules relax further.

Sharon Colgan said that the Blues Bar has seen its overall sales double compared to the same period last year. Simon Cotton also said that the bar sales at Yorkshire Hotel has doubled.

Mr Cotton told the Stray Ferret:

"We have been very fortunate with the weather. We might not be as busy without the sun but when it shines we have a good continental vibe that lots of people enjoy. Even when weather isn't great we could put out some blankets and heaters."

Mrs Colgan also told the Stray Ferret:

"It might have taken the pandemic for the council to soften up a bit on this but we have welcomed it. I would love it if we could continue to use the grass just outside and I think there is a real appetite for it in Harrogate. The town would really stand out."

North Yorkshire County Council relaxed the rules on outdoor dining to help businesses without dedicated outdoor spaces to welcome customers back with social distancing in mind.

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It has always been a temporary measure but the local authority has now said it is "happy to review any requests for longer term use of the public highway" for alfresco dining.

David Bowe, the corporate director for business and environmental services at the county council, added:

"We have had some really positive feedback from businesses about the measures already in place. However, it is important to understand that there are inevitably differing demands for all road users and these have to be safely balanced."

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Harrogate bars want alfresco drinking and dining to be permanent

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