| |
Unfair? Pulcinella owner Anthony Micallef complains of a ‘skewed approach’ to licensing of Great Compton Street outlets |
Storm in coffee cup over tables and chairs on al-fresco street
Restaurateur says ‘double standard’ means small businesses are losing out
THE owner of an Italian restaurant in Soho has launched a blistering attack on the council for its policy on al-fresco eating and drinking.
Anthony Micallef, of Pulcinella, in Old Compton Street claimed Westminster City Council operates a “double standard” and bows to the might of major coffee chains, after he was told to clear away his outdoor tables and chairs.
He said hordes of coffee drinkers use the pavement outside Costa Coffee and Caffè Nero in the same street.
Mr Micallef, who has run Pulcinella since 1993, called on licensing chiefs to apply an even-handed approach.
The council confirmed that all three premises are under investigation for not having the necessary licences.
But Mr Micallef said, while he had complied with a ban, tables and chairs remained outside the two coffee houses.
He said: “It seems like a massive double standard. Why should I be punished when the big franchises are allowed to continue to operate with impunity.
“I took down my tables and chairs straight away but they are allowed to get away with it. It’s not like the officers don’t know about it, they are right opposite.
“No wonder small businesses struggle when they face such a skewed approach. I’m not asking for special treatment.
“We didn’t have a licence and now we’re applying for one but having one rule for us and one rule for the big boys is grossly unfair.”
In the past some residents have complained that Old Compton Street has become too clogged up with tables and chairs, forcing people to walk along the middle of the road.
The council said businesses with tables and chairs on the street outside their premises must apply for a street trading licence.
Council environmental health manager Andy Ralph said: “Pulcinella restaurant was visited by our officers during a review currently being carried out at premises across the West End, as we are aware that there are a number of premises not complying, and we have advised the owner to apply for a licence.
“No premises have an automatic right to put tables and chairs on the public highway as, although we are keen to encourage al-fresco dining wherever practical, the pavement does need to be kept clear so that pedestrians, and particularly wheelchairs and pushchairs, can pass unheeded and without any danger to themselves or passing traffic.”
Costa Coffee and Caffè Nero were unavailable for comment. |
 |
|
| |
| |
