Banbridge Councillor Brian Pope has campaigned for more street cafés and a Continental Style Café culture to help revitalise our towns and city.

The Alliance Councillor for Banbridge, who is chair of the Economic Committee, said: “I believe that more street cafés and a Continental Style Café culture could create more physical space for social distancing and help boost the local economy.”

“There is the potential to increase outside seating and allow more customers whilst maintaining social distancing. This could increase footfall in towns and help in the recovery process.

“It is important that disabled access is included and considered carefully for any new street café and seating area, and also consideration of our local weather conditions.

“The width of local pavements and other physical constraints would need to be assessed but this could also be an opportunity to encourage more cyclists and walkers into the town centres.

“And, subject to the necessary approvals, this could mean tables and chairs being set up outside of cafés or bars, similar to many towns in Europe.

“I will continue to liaise with traders and representatives of business groups from across the borough, and would encourage existing traders to come forward with their suggestions or ideas.

“As restrictions are relaxed we have the opportunity to support our local towns with this new form of street café culture.”