A Nottinghamshire pub is set for a major revamp which managers hope will make it more "family-friendly". Plans for the improvements at The Salutation Inn, on the west side of Main Street, in Keyworth, have been given the go-ahead.
Rushcliffe Borough Council gave permission for what's described as an outdoor open-sided dining shelter comprising of wooden posts and a slate roof to be built. New lighting and outdoor heating are also included in the 17th century pub's new facility.
The council said the original scheme had led to a number of concerns being raised, with a series of revisions made to the latest proposals submitted in March last year. In total, 10 objections were received to the recent proposal.
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Neighbours expressed worries the pergola would encourage far more customers to be in close proximity to their homes, causing noise and lighting issues. Others said the plans would not be in keeping with the area.
The council acknowledged the concerns over noise and other disturbances, but argued the proposed scheme was not likely to increase the amount of noise and activity to a level that would have a significant impact.
A council report said: "If the purpose of the proposed dining shelter is to be fulfilled - i.e. that patrons dine outside under shelter, and with artificial lighting and outdoor heating - then this would extend the amount of time patrons could comfortably be outside. However, the amount of outdoor space available to patrons would be the same as that which exists now, and the same (non-planning) controls on unacceptable noise levels and anti-social behaviour would be in place.
"Moreover, at the suggestion of the Environmental Health Officer, a condition prohibiting any kind of outdoor music shall be attached to any permission. On balance, therefore, it is not considered that the proposal would introduce an unacceptable adverse effect on the amenity of the surrounding residents."
Concept IDL Ltd, on behalf of Star Pubs & Bars, said: "Our client, Star Pubs & Bars, are planning a roll out project of pergolas to external spaces to a number of their sites to give customers the choice and flexibility to feel comfortable to dine either internally or externally and not be dictated by the weather.
"The Salutation is a community pub and currently has a successful trade with both food and beverage sales. The planned pergola would provide a family-friendly external dining area, a welcoming addition for the entire community to enjoy. The proposal within the application have been designed to offer an altogether safer and more enjoyable experience for all people visiting the pub, particularly people local to the area who will have a better facility to enjoy only a short distance away."
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