Businesses in Newtown will be able to use public pavements and public areas under new guidelines by Powys County Council.
Businesses, such as cafes, restaurants and pubs will be able to put seating on closed road areas as well as part of plans to help boost trade in the town along with other communities in Powys.
Businesses will have to apply for permission.
It comes after MyNewtown revealed how new street furniture is likely to be installed in the town centre to replace temporary social distancing measures, including road cones.
"The coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis has had a significant impact on the lives and health of many Powys citizens, but it has also had severe economic consequences," said a council statement.
"The lockdown had an immediate impact on the way in which our town centres operate, with many businesses being required to close for a significant period of time.
"With many of these businesses now reopening, we must now ensure our public spaces and town centres are not only safe but also allow local businesses to trade within the guidelines.
"The approval to use the pavements, available from the council, allows businesses to create an outdoor café style atmosphere, along with providing other services and recreation amenities, on designated areas of the public highway."
Cllr Heulwen Hulme, cabinet member for Highways, said: “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.”
“Open areas in our town centres is 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.
“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.”
The council said each application will be assessed and consulted on its own merits. 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.
For more details or to apply for a pavement licence, please visit: en.powys.gov.uk/pavementlicence