Hospitality trade ‘frustration’ at lack of movement by Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon Council

Willard D Barber, manager at McConville Bros Ltd, had called for swift movement from Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council over issuing licences ahead of pubs, restaurants and cafes reopening after the COVID-19 lockdown.

Mr Barber said: “I am disappointed at the lack of action at Monday night’s (ABC Council) meeting. To be fair, I did expect more from councillors.”

The matter was briefly discussed by councillors and then moved to the Economic Development Committee on July 9 for discussion.

“I would call on council to urgently sit before Thursday July 9 which is the scheduled Economic Development Committee Meeting,” he added.

“I would ask them to use their other powers and structures they have in place to get things done.”

He said he didn’t see the point in waiting to July 9 when businesses were reopening on July 3.

Mr Barber said he is meeting Cllr Brian Pope, Chairperson of the Economic Development Committee on Thursday and is confident of his support.

He called on the council’s COVID-19 working group and the Party Leaders’ Working Group to ‘get things up and running’.

Mr Barber voiced frustration that, even if he were to complete and submit a Cafe Pavement licence, nothing could be done until after the July 9 meeting .

Mr Barber said he is keen on getting both the pavement cafe licences and the outdoor market/restaurant/pub facility up and running soon.

A Council spokesperson said: “We are working with the other agencies involved on a revised pavement café licence application process and guidance, which is anticipated to be available later next week.

“In the meantime, anyone seeking advice can contact [email protected]”

On the COVID-19 plan, a spokesperson for the council said: “Council is in the process of developing a dynamic Covid-19 Recovery Plan, with evolving timelines in the context of wider regional recovery work and local needs.

“This has been discussed with councillors who are represented on relevant committees and working groups.

“Once finalised this plan will then be reported through Council for all councillors to review.”

Independent Cllr Paul Berry said he supported Mr Barber’s proposals and said he received full support at a Party Leaders’ Forum when he put them forward.

He said: “If adopted officially by Council, this would be a Licence application process and every application would be considered in relation to location etc to ensure ease of pedestrians and wheelchair users but I know there is a possible location identified for a larger outdoor area.”

Alliance Cllr Brian Pope backed the campaign for a Continental Style Café culture which he said, could “create more physical space for social distancing and help boost the local economy. This could increase footfall in towns and help in the recovery process”.

He added, “It is important that disabled access is included and considered carefully.”

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