A continental style café culture across “could increase footfall in our towns and city”, according to the Council’s chair of of the economic committee.
Alliance councillor Brian Pope has called for a concerted campaign for more street cafés to help revitalise places like, Armagh, Portadown, Lurgan and Banbridge.
Councillor Pope believes there is the potential to increase outside seating and allow more customers all while maintaining social distancing.
“It is important that disabled access is included and considered carefully for any new street café and seating area, and also consideration of our local weather conditions,” he said.
“The width of local pavements and other physical constraints would need to be assessed but this could also be an opportunity to encourage more cyclists and walkers into the town centres.
“And, subject to the necessary approvals, this could mean tables and chairs being set up outside of cafés or bars, similar to many towns in Europe.”
He added: “I will continue to liaise with traders and representatives of business groups from across the borough, and would encourage existing traders to come forward with their suggestions or ideas.
“As restrictions are relaxed we have the opportunity to support our local towns with this new form of street café culture.”
