Too much red tape, says licensed trade
Businesses accuse Glasgow planners of stifling trade with controls on pavement facilities
Glasgow's licensed trade has accused the city council of thwarting business thanks to threatened restrictions on premises providing facilities outdoors.
There has been a rapid increase in the number of pubs, bars, cafes and hotels setting up tables and chairs outside in recent years, led by demand in warmer weather and as a result of the smoking ban. The city's licensing board approves the practice, subject to a 10pm curfew so as to avoid disturbance to local residents - but now the planning department is stepping in to require further permission.
Planners are invoking environmental and health and safety considerations, together with roads department consent to ensure pavements are not obstructed.
The licensed trade has accused the council of putting too much red tape in the way of businesses and claims that the city is risking stifling the cafe culture that has developed successfully in Glasgow.
Current News05.09.08 PM changes tack on tax-raising powersAllowing Scottish Parliament more accountability would strengthen the UK, says Brown 05.09.08 Summary justice reform success, claims AngioliniLord Advocate's letter says figures to date indicate new system working 04.09.08 Advocates in Aberdeen launch new websiteInternet presence aimed at increasing awareness of Society of Advocates in the north east 04.09.08 Legal profession, local income tax top bill listScottish Government unveils legislative programme for 2008-09 04.09.08 Step up to associate for Fife lawyerSue Arrowsmith promoted at Murray Donald Drummond Cook LLP 04.09.08 Prosecution inspectorate publishes annual reportReview pending of new fiscal fine system 03.09.08 Society welcomes Legal Profession BillHopes that bill will provide for alternative business structures for law firms 03.09.08 'No proof that plaques harmful': insurance lawyersIndustry's legal team argue against proposed law extending compensation 03.09.08 Commissioner orders release of tender informationCouncil not justified in claim that Street Outreach documents must be kept secret 02.09.08 Stamp duty break for lower value properties12-month threshold of £175,000 among government moves to buck up housing market 01.09.08 Government publishes sentencing proposalsJudges and sheriffs would need to reveal reasons for departing from guidelines 01.09.08 Revenue reminds of new tax return date31 October now deadline for paper returns 01.09.08 Blackadders' review results in 44 job lossesTwo branches also close as firm consolidates to combat property market troubles 01.09.08 Area procurator fiscal appointment for CentralMichelle Macleod takes on new role 01.09.08 Partner catch for Ledingham ChalmersNeil Anderson appointed, while Marysia Lewis takes up floating sheriff appointment |