The Copper Beech, on Neasham Road, sought retrospective permission for the conversion of an unused tarmac area into a children’s play space and outdoor seating area.
Already completed, the development includes the installation of Astroturf and bark, play equipment, picnic tables, benches, and a timber fence with gates.
These installations are temporary and can be removed easily.
The pub’s car park retains its capacity of 19 parking spaces, and the development, which covers approximately 0.01 hectares, does not increase the size of the existing building.
Adjacent to the pub, the play area sits in a previously unused area of the car park.
It will operate from midday to 9pm during the summer months, and until 5pm in winter.
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No changes have been made to waste storage arrangements or pedestrian and vehicle access, and no issues with flood risk or site contamination are anticipated.
The Copper Beech, which is in a mixed residential and commercial area, made the changes before submitting the application.
The alterations are small-scale and are designed for use by pub patrons only, so are not expected to increase visitor numbers or disrupt neighbours.
An Environmental Health Officer has raised no concerns regarding noise or amenity issues.
Parking spaces displaced by the development have been relocated within the car park through a revised layout.
The outdoor seating will have limited use during bad weather and will not increase site traffic or usage.
An Ecology Officer found no impact on wildlife or habitats, as the development only affects pre-existing tarmac.
The application was publicly notified, and no objections were received.
The Highways Engineer, Ecology Officer, and Environmental Health Officer all had no concerns about the proposal.
Planning permission was granted on January 9, with the condition that the development must begin within three years of the decision date, as per planning regulations. T
he development must also adhere to the approved plans and comply with any additional building regulations or consents prior to development.