Enjoy the summer alfresco

Businesses in the town centre can now take advantage of a new alfresco licence allowing them to create a pop-up outdoor food and drink area in the new, temporary green space in Weaver Square – now known as Apple Market Place.

During the hours of 8am to 8pm Monday to Sunday, inclusive, local businesses with an alfresco licence, will be able to set up a maximum of four tables within Apple Market Place, with a total seating capacity of 16. This will mean that customers can enjoy the wide range of food and drink available from businesses in the surrounding area, in the great outdoors.

The newly opened Grape and Bean and Kanya Bistro are the first two businesses to have been granted an alfresco licence.

Cabinet Member for Inclusive Growth, Economy and Regeneration, Councillor Richard Beacham said: “Eating out in Northwich this summer has a new twist, with free alfresco licences for local businesses. The licences mean local residents and visitors can sit out to enjoy food and drink when the weather is nice.

“Spending time with friends and family in outdoor spaces like Apple Market Place is what summer is all about, and it has never been more important to support local cafes, bars and restaurants following the events of the past year.

“These free licences are part of a range of measures the Council is taking to support local businesses and help people to spend time together safely during the pandemic.”

Ian Barstow, co-owner of the Grape and Bean said: "We are new to Northwich and have recently opened a coffee lounge and wine bar opposite Apple Market Place. One of the key attractions for bringing our new business to the area was that we could expand our offer to the town’s residents by setting up outdoor tables and chairs in the beautiful green space directly adjacent to our business - this, as well as being part of a thriving town that is on the up.”

To apply for an alfresco licence, businesses need to complete a simple application form and provide a site plan showing the location and dimensions of the area and its associated furniture, a valid insurance policy and a premises licence, where applicable.

The licence holder is responsible for keeping the area clean, tidy, and clear of rubbish at all times and the area will be carefully managed to ensure the safety of visitors, as we emerge from the pandemic. All tables and chairs will be removed from the space at the end of the day and stored at the business premises.