THE VALE of Glamorgan Council is considering extending temporary trading licences at Penarth Esplanade.

Temporary licences allow hospitality businesses to trade on the public highway and were issued during the Covid pandemic to help with the impact of operating restrictions.

Most temporary trading licences have been granted for space on pavements, while they were also issued for a trial of parklets – custom areas within parking bays – in parts of Penarth.

The council promised to review its position on the matter following the local elections which took place in May.

A report – which will go before the cabinet next week – was set to be published on the council’s website on Friday, June 17.

The report includes plans for public consultation and engagement on the future of Penarth Esplanade, with a particular focus on whether there should be a continuation of external licensed areas. Associated traffic management and public realm implications will also be included.

Vale of Glamorgan Council cabinet member for neighbourhood and building services, Cllr Mark Wilson, said:

“There has been significant improvement in the public realm in and around the esplanade, with the Council investing heavily in the Pier Pavilion. 

“We have also carried out a widescale painting programme of the pier and esplanade alongside improvements to pavements and the road surface.

“There is significant public interest in this issue and differing opinions on whether external dining and licensed areas are a positive or negative feature at this location.”

The existing temporary trading licenses at the esplanade had been due to end at the end of this month (June) as had similar arrangements for businesses at Barry Island.

If proposals are approved on June 23 these licences will be extended on a month-by-month basis while views on the management of the esplanade are sought.