Pub Planning officers back Wetherspoon plan
ANEW Wetherspoon pub in Bristol has been recommended for approval after years of controversy.
The chain has been vying for seven years to open inside a boarded-up shop on Gloucester Road, with various planning applications withdrawn or rejected since July 2014.
It has now secured a breakthrough after Bristol City Council planning officers recommended its latest one for approval, although the final decision will rest with councillors this week.
More than 200 people have objected to the proposed new pub, which sits in the Bishopston and Ashley Down ward, with many fearing it will attract more noise and antisocial behaviour to their neighbourhood.
Another argument is that it would not be in-keeping with the theme of Gloucester Road, which is known for its vibrant selection of independent businesses.
However, more than 50 people voiced their support for the proposal, agreeing that it would bring the eyesore building back into use after more than a decade.
A new report published by council officers states: “The current application has successfully overcome all of the local planning authority’s concerns relating to previous applications.
“The change of use would not be harmful to the retail function of the area and it is recognised there would be benefits associated with bringing the building back into use following prolonged vacancy.
“[Officers] are now satisfied by the applicant’s proposals to manage and mitigate noise associated with the use and, subject to safeguarding conditions, find the impact of development acceptable in this regard.”
The report notes that the twostorey pub, which covers about 1000 sq m in floor space, will create 50 jobs and “benefit the local economy”.
While officers acknowledged the “significant number of objections”, they said many of the arguments against were “not material or relevant to determination of the current application”.
JD Wetherspoon already own the building and filed the current change of use application in March 2020, making its seventh attempt after previous versions were either withdrawn or refused.
Its plan to prevent antisocial behaviour there includes a ‘home fans only’ rule and increased door security on Bristol Rovers match days, a daily 9pm closing time for its outdoor roof terrace, and a direct line of contact between managers and immediate neighbours.
One of the city council’s development control committees is due to meet on Wednesday (June 30) to make the final decision, but they have been advised to approve it.
The report from council officers, dated Wednesday (June 23), added: “The building has not been in use consistently for approximately 15 years. It is in a poor state of repair including boarded windows for security
“Re-use and extensive investment and refurbishment as proposed are highly compatible with policy objectives of creating vitality, viability and diversity within the town centre and the primary shopping area.”
In April, the pub chain said it hopes to start building works next year if it secures planning and licensing approval.