Outcry over pub plans for ex-M&S

PLANS TO turn Bridlington’s vacant Marks & Spencer store into a pub and restaurant have been opposed by residents concerned about the rise in drinking outlets in the town.

Residents near to the proposed site of The Three Brass Monkeys pub and Monkey Puzzle restaurant, in 7-8 Prince Street, said it would encourage late-night drinking.

The proposed opening hours for the pub are 10am to 12.30am Sunday to Thursday and to 1.30am Friday and Saturday.

Objections also came from nearby pubs and bars claiming another establishment would affect off-season trade.

The pub and restaurant would be the first new businesses to occupy the vacant M&S store which closed in April 2018.

Plans also include opening an adult gaming centre on the Cliff Street side of the store.

One resident claimed life for those living nearby would become “unbearable” if the plans went ahead.

Reece Holland, chair of the Bridlington Leisure Association, said there were too many pubs in Bridlington, adding the council had granted five drinking licences this year.

Mr Holland said: “The property has always been a retail and food store and should remain the same.

“Amber Taverns are a multinational and the town doesn’t see a benefit from business as all the money leaves Bridlington.

“If we get a giant bar/pub club you encourage stag and hen-dos which is what happened to Blackpool, another thriving seaside town.”

Applicants Amber Taverns Ltd stated in their submissions to East Riding Council that a planned partly enclosed roof terrace would help reduce late night noise.

The company said: “Prince Street will be utilised as the main customer access to the drinking establishment.”