Micropub plan for ex bakery refused
PLANS to transform a former bakery into a micro-pub have been refused by the council.
Applicants Janet and Mike Davies had proposed to turn the ground floor premises at 71 Smithy Bridge Road in Littleborough into a micro-pub with opening hours of 12noon to 10pm on Thursday to Sunday.
Council planning officers had recommended the scheme be refused because of the ‘close proximity’ to residential properties.
In a planning report, they said: “External activities associated with the proposed use would likely result in an undue level of disturbance and an unacceptable living environment for residents of adjoining residential properties, in particular the first floor flat at the site.
“This harm could not be mitigated through conditions and the recommendation is for refusal.”
Twenty-seven letters of
objection and 98 letters of support were submitted to the council along with representations from the Pennines Township Planning Panel.
Objectors claimed there were ‘sufficient drinking establishments in the area in better locations’ and raised concerns over neighbour disturbance, music noise, anti-social behaviour and a lack of parking.
Supporters argued that it would ‘add to the local community’, support local business initiatives and create jobs.
They also said it would provide a community space for local residents and that the existing property is ‘currently rundown and makes the village appear scruffy’.
It was also cited that “similar establishments in Littleborough, Hebden Bridge, Todmorden and Castleton have a lovely feel to them and attract a good clientele”.
A planning meeting last week heard representations from the applicants, two members of the public who supported the plans and Littleborough Lakeside ward member, Councillor John Hartley, who addressed the committee objecting to the application.
A council spokesperson said that planning permission was refused “for the reasons outlined within the submitted report.”