Cosham pub set to have new bar

A PUB that sits on Portsdown Hill has won the right to open a new outdoor bar.

Portsmouth councillors unanimously approved permission for changes to The Churchillian pub in Portsdown Hill Road, in Cosham, during a meeting this week.

The work will include the construction of an outside bar with a rear or side terrace and fencing, the installation of a pergola in the front garden and extra seating and tables.

Speaking at the virtual meeting Councillor Terry

Norton said: ‘We have had no objections from local residents there.

‘There is obviously a push for more outdoor dining at the moment so I think it’s a good application.’

Cllr Lee Hunt agreed. ‘As with all these things the proof of the pudding is in the eating,’ he said.

‘We have had no objections from the police who see these reports as well. If it becomes noisy and a nuisance to the neighbours there might be a review of the licence.

‘Good luck to the pub.’ As part of the plans six new tables would be added by the pub’s main entrance, and five to the east of the pub.

A spokeswoman for Stonegate Group, which runs the pub, explained the completion of the project would depend on the impact of the pandemic. She said: 'An investment scheme was proposed last spring and an application for planning made.

'Should planning be granted we will be reviewing our timescales for completion bearing in mind the current lockdown and economic circumstances.'