Businesses in Powys are to be given permission to start trading from pavements and closed-off highways to help them back on their feet after the coronavirus lockdown.

Powys Council has said businesses will be able to apply for permission to operate on pavements, public areas, and "reclaimed highways" – roads which have been shut off to aid social distancing – to help them boost trade.

It intends to create an "outdoor cafe style atmosphere", and provide other services on areas of public highway.

“There is no quick fix to recover from the Covid-19 crisis, social distancing and the need for personal protection measures will be with us for some time,” said Cllr Heulwen Hulme, the council's cabinet member for highways.

“Open areas in our town centres are limited, and while some businesses are fortunate enough to have their own space, many will not.

"By working with residents, town councils and local businesses, the council will support the reallocation of space in a flexible way to accommodate shoppers, diners, visitors and local residents to safely use and enjoy together."

Cllr Hulme added: “Imagine metropolitan street cafes, cosmopolitan and artisan spaces, open air markets, thriving independent retailers, and popular places to eat and drink.

"Reimagining and recreating our towns in this way will make them visually more appealing and increase the footfall of shoppers, residents, visitors and tourists, making them, in turn, a vibrant, thriving place to do business and socialise.”

Every town will be different, with a bespoke plan to maximise the strengths of the area and needs of the businesses.

In areas where roads can be fully or partly pedestrianised, pavement licences can be granted to help create open air dining and socialising space for cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars.

Each application will be assessed and consulted on its own merits, and businesses must demonstrate that they can operate in within social distancing regulations and highway rules to ensure the safety of customers and other members of the public.