PUBS, bars and restaurants could automatically be given permission to serve alcohol for people to drink on the pavement and in the street, it has been revealed.

Fresh plans to help businesses “adjust” while social distancing measures remain in place will come before MPs this week.

Part of the changes would see every pub, bar and restaurant, exploiting scientific findings that coronavirus spreads less easily outside.

The tweaks would also allow businesses to “capitalise on the summer months” after a threemonth shutdown.

It comes after business leaders called on Southend Council to consider closing roads to allow cafes, bars and restaurants to safely serve people in the open air.

But councillors have warned it would not work and would be fraught with problems.

Peter Wexham, Lib Dem councillor for Leigh, said: “I do not think it would work in Old Leigh as you would have to shut the road, and how would people get into the area?

“If you shut the car parks, it could work but then where will people park? I think it would need looking into thoroughly.

“It could work at the top of Southend High Street near to London Road and there are plans being discussed to pedestrian this area.

“Cafes, restaurants and bars could be given more space if it was needed, and they could bring out the food and drinks to save people going into the buildings.

“It really all depends what Boris Johnson announces this week, I know businesses are keen to open very soon.”

In Colchester, councillors have already fast-tracked plans to allow bars, restaurants and cafes not already licensed to do so to set out tables and chairs outside.

And that scheme has not gone unnoticed in Southend.

Carole Mulroney, fellow Lib Dem councillor for Leigh, said: “We have noted with interest the proposed changes Colchester have planned and will do all we can to support our businesses as they re0open.

“Of course all towns are different and any changes to our planning approach would need to be carefully considered to make sure we address the specific challenges which Southend faces.

“Any changes would also need to go through the appropriate procedures which govern the planning situation.”

Denise Rossiter, chief executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce, has urged Southend to follow in Colchester’s footsteps.

She said it should be considered, providing that it doesn’t see the loss of parking provision