ROW OVER PUB OUTDOOR SEATING PLAN:
Decision to allow extension was reversed after objection
THE landlord of a city centre pub is seeking support in an outdoor seating row.
Stoke-on-trent City Council initially allowed the Coachmakers Arms, in Hanley, to double the size of its outdoor seating arrangements with a covered area.
But an objection to the plans, which would have seen a small portion of the car park closed off to allow for another six tables, means the council will now hold a public hearing in May.
Coachmakers regular, Michael Hawkins, thinks the council’s decision is ‘disgraceful’.
The 58-year-old, from Hanley, said: “The pub has been there for well over 150 years, you’d think there’d be more care from the council.
“Waiting until May 10 for a decision is too late, the official unlocking date is May 17. So why would he bother?
“The council had said yes, then 24 hours later said no. It’s very strange.”
Landlord Rob Ledgar is now canvassing letters of support for the pub’s plans. Over 200 letters have already been submitted.
He said: “We had a call on Wednesday to tell us that there had been an objection, and that the earliest the hearing could be held would be May 5, but was more likely to be May 10.
“We now have to attend the hearing as there has been an objection to reducing the amount of car parking spaces available.
“This is despite the new car park being opened very shortly on the corner of Charles and Old Hall Street less than one minute walk away from the area, and about 30 spaces on Birch Terrace and many more on the old bus station.
“Our proposal also includes full access to all of our neighbouring business frontages.
“The Government has said we will do whatever it takes to get businesses back on track as soon as possible, and I would expect the local authorities to fast-track Covid-safe environments and these processes.
“I feel that we’ve had a very tough year and need as much support as we can get.”
Stoke-on-trent City Council have been contacted for comment.