CONCERNS have been raised over plans from a popular micropub in Seaton Carew to create a new beer garden.

Proposals were submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council earlier this year from Peter Charlton at The 9 Anchors for an enclosed beer garden to the side of the existing building.

Plans state the development is ideal for the location, would help ‘a thriving business grow’ and potentially create jobs in the future.

The beer garden would be provided to the side of the micropub on land on the corner of The Front and Station Lane, which is currently part of a paved area leading through to Seaton Park.

However eight objections have been submitted to the plans by residents, raising concerns it could lead to an increase in noise and litter, and noting its proximity to Seaton Park, frequently used by children.

A decision is to be made on the proposals at the Hartlepool Borough Council Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday (November 4).

A report from council planning officer Stephanie Bell is recommending the proposals are refused, noting several council departments have also raised concerns over the plans.

She said: “Given the proximity of residential properties and that an objection has been received from HBC Public Protection, it is considered that the potential adverse noise impacts would be so significant as to warrant a refusal of the application.

“The [council] Heritage and Countryside Manager does raise concerns regarding the loss of this land which provides a link between The Front and a pedestrian access to Seaton Park which is clearly defined with incidental planting and sculptures.

“It is considered that the proposed change of use to the area to the north of 2 The Front to a beer garden to serve the host premises is not acceptable.”

The plans would include installing seven fixed barrel tables, chairs, rope and timber barriers around the area, and replacing an existing window at the micropub with a door to the beer garden, with a small staircase leading to it.

A planning and heritage statement on behalf of the applicant states the proposals would benefit the micropub and the area.

It said: “The proposals, if approved, will improve the facilities at the building, providing much needed outdoor space to comply with our clients requirements and brings a number of economic, social and environmental benefits to Seaton Carew. 

“The proposals will improve the functionality of the business premises, providing a future viable use, helping a thriving business grow without making wholesale material changes to the fabric of the building and surrounding area.

“It is the hope of our client that this expansion will create jobs in the future and enhance economic prosperity of the area.”

A decision will be made on the proposals at the planning committee meeting on Wednesday, November 4, which starts at 9.30am and will be streamed live via YouTube.