AN AWARD-WINNING gastro pub has permission to build an al fresco dining area following a successful planning appeal.
Cheshire West and Chester Council had rejected The Ship Inn’s plan to create a ground floor veranda and overhead first floor balcony on land which forms part of the Edgar's Field park.
There had been opposition to the Handbridge pub’s vision, including from more 500 residents, four headteachers, local councillors and organisations such as Friends of Edgar's Field Park and Chester Civic Trust.
Many argued the park was gifted to the people of Chester by the first Duke of Westminster and subject to restrictive covenants including a ban on the sale of alcohol.
Objector Stephen Rogers, for the Friends, argued the al fresco function was incompatible with the park and play area.
But granting the appeal, planning inspector Ruth MacKenzie said the current gable end was ‘a prominent and incongruously bland expanse of brickwork’.
“In my opinion, it would benefit from the addition of the light and airy structure that the appellant is proposing to add.”
She continued: “The character of a conservation area does not derive solely from its buildings and spaces; human activity also plays a part. The proposed veranda and balcony would give customers of The Ship Inn an opportunity to eat ‘al fresco’ in good weather, thereby contributing to the vibrant character of this conservation area.
“In that respect, I note the support for the scheme from Chester City Management and Chester Renaissance, organisations that seek to improve Chester’s economy and environment.”
Ship co-owner Sally Harris said construction will start ‘as soon as possible’.
