Street cafes to add ‘vitality’ to area

PLANS TO create continentalstyle street cafés in a lively area of Leeds city centre have been approved by planners in the city.

Following the pedestrianisation of Greek Street, Leeds Council officers have created a guide for street cafes to add ‘vitality and attractiveness’ to the area.

The plans would see Greek Street, which hosts some of the city’s most popular bars and restaurants, increase the width of its central walkway, and create barriers to better allow existing businesses to include seating in the street.

A document created by council planning officers adds that the current refurbishment work taking place on Greek Street is expected to finish in May 2020.

Early plans for the site include ‘Increasing the central walkway’, as well as providing an increase in the space allowed to be used for street cafés.

It adds that a ‘strong, straight and consistent’ line of street café barriers would be included to help partially sighted people navigating the street. Businesses will need to apply for street café licences.

The report states: “The pedestrianisation of Greek Street contributes positively towards supporting growth, investment and businesses and by contributing to improved air quality through the removal of most traffic.

“Street cafés aim to improve vitality and attractiveness of the city centre and contribute to the best council plan.

“The intention is that this ‘master’ plan will be used as a guide, and individual businesses will apply for street cafés in the normal way. The overall layout plan is not fully prescriptive.

“It only offers a guide to businesses on the maximum extent of their areas”

The masterplan has been approved by council officers.