SEVERAL popular venues in Bolton town centre have been involved in securing pavement licences for post-lockdown reopenings.

Under government plans, the provisions for providing tables and chairs outside bars and pubs is supposed to have been made easier for hostelries.

And in the past few weeks some of Bolton's favourite watering holes have looked to get in on the act.

Council officials have confirmed successful applications have been lodged by The Churchgate, Dragonfly on Bradshawgate, Northern Monkey, in Nelson Square, and Venue Bar.

Another similar bid by Ye Olde Man & Scythe, on Churchgate, is said to be under consideration. Plans for a licence are also being advertised in the window of the Swan and Barristers nearby.

Bosses at the Spinning Mule have also drafted fresh proposals for a pavement licence after seeing two previous applications for the rear and front of their premises turned down by the council.

A licensing official, on the council's website, says: "As part of the Government's easing of the lockdown restrictions, we have been granted permission to grant 'pavement licences' for premises across the borough.

This new process introduces a streamlined and cheaper route for businesses such as cafes, restaurants and bars to secure a license to place furniture on the highway.

"This will support them to operate safely while social distancing measures remain in place."

But there are a number of provisos before such licences can take effect, including an 11pm time bar.

Each of the licences must be advertised for five days beforehand - and consultations undertaken with neighbours. Parts of any road cannot be used for pavement trading, unless a traffic closure order has been secured.

Licensing officials say the permits last for a maximum of three months apiece and may be subject to review.