Pubs, restaurants and cafes looking to increase their trade can apply for temporary pavement licence from today (July 7).

The licences are available through the council free of charge and, in most cases, last for 12 months.

Once the applications are approved businesses will be able to put tables and chairs on pavements outside their premises to serve customers food and drink.

However, they are subject to a notice period of 10 working days, during which people will have the opportunity to comment on the application.

Cllr Bridget Wayman, cabinet member for highways, said: "We know there is a great deal of interest among the business community to grant these licences to use tables and chairs on the public highway, and we're keen to get these processed as quickly as possible, subject to the statutory notice period of ten working days per licence.

"We know how important it is to give businesses every opportunity to succeed during this difficult time, and we hope that these licences will enable traders to accommodate more customers while also following social distancing guidelines.

"We do have the option to charge for this service, but we have chosen not to, as we want to do all we can to support businesses during this time.

"I'd also like to pay tribute to our officers, who will be working around the clock to process large numbers of applications in quick time to help give Wiltshire businesses the boost they need this summer and during the next 12 months."

For more information and to download an application form please visit http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/licences-permits-temporary-pavement-licences