OUTDOOR weddings at licensed venues in England and Wales will be legalised permanently after the Government announced that temporary measures introduced during the pandemic will be made permanent.

The change will give marrying couples greater flexibility and choice in how they celebrate their big day and follows a consultation which showed overwhelming support from the public, faith groups and the wedding industry.

Prior to last summer, civil ceremonies at a licensed wedding venue had to take place indoors or within a permanent outdoor structure, such as a bandstand.

Central Devon MP Mel Stride said: “Getting married is one of the most important days in a person’s life and these changes will allow more couples to celebrate their special day the way they want to.

“Wedding venues with attractive outdoor spaces will be more desirable, which should particularly benefit the wedding industry here in Devon – a much needed boost for many businesses as they bounce back from the pandemic.”