NORTH Somerset Council has decided to force anyone who puts chairs and tables outside of their business in Weston into paying for a licence and a yearly fee. Is it the same group of people who almost begged

NORTH Somerset Council has decided to force anyone who puts chairs and tables outside of their business in Weston into paying for a 'licence' and a yearly fee.

Is it the same group of people who almost begged owners to place those same tables and chairs out to create 'a more continental feel'? Surely it would be a much better idea to invest in better pavements and areas for outside dining rather than punish those who want to use their property to promote a nicer, airy place to eat.

According to Councillor Ap Rees this is purely due to 'health and safety issues' where cordons are required in case someone trips over a chair, but when most public areas in Weston are so badly designed and maintained, such as the paving around St James Street and the cobbled area around the Playhouse, am I being a little bit mad in suggesting these are concentrated on first?

IAN BAKER - Locking Road, Weston