By Ross Brewster

Last updated 14:51, Thursday, 18 September 2008

Keswick's burgeoning “cafe culture” received backing this week from a top council official and a prominent cafe and shop owner.

It seems that open air pavement style cafes are the future for the busy Lake District holiday town.

Peter Stybelski, chief executive of Cumbria County Council, said: “The cafe culture that is emerging in Keswick and many other towns can only benefit the local economy.”

Several cafes in and around the Market Square have been putting out tables and chairs on the pavements this summer, despite the poor weather.

There was some controversy a few weeks ago when one cafe, Java and Chocolate, assembled tables and chairs on the actual Market Square below the Moot Hall. They were warned that they needed a licence and could have their furniture impounded by the council.

In a letter to Keswick council, Mr Stybelski said the issue of cafe culture was being addressed through a licensing scheme under the Highways Act.

He said: “Details are being gathered from those businesses that are, or who wish to operate, a cafe on the public highway. Each request will be addressed from a highways safety point of view before issuing the appropriate licence.”

Mr Stybelski said that initially the council would manage the scheme, but administration was something that could be undertaken by the town council in the future.

Debbie Travis, who owns Brysons bakery and tea shop in the Main Street, said: “It’s what people want and I don’t see a problem provided people keep the areas clean and tidy. Some people like to have a coffee and eat outside and you have to move with the times.”

She said: “We keep our canopy and tables clean and don’t obstruct the pavement. I was talking to someone from Ambleside who said they envied our cafe culture because it was something their town didn’t have.

“On sunny days there’s a lovely atmosphere and I think it has brought a lot of good for the town and made it more lively.”

Mrs Travis said the letter from Mr Stybelski was the first she had heard of a licensing scheme, but added she would be interested if there was the opportunity to have tables in the Market Square.

A number of issues affect access to the Market Square in Keswick and Mr Stybelski said: “A more robust approach is required to ensure that access is managed.”