Sheffield micropub wants to open outdoor seating later at night to allow social distancing

Fulwood Ale Club is currently allowed to open its forecourt until 7pm as it's within the shopping precinct on Brooklands Avenue and close to houses.

The pub is now asking to open it from 11.30am until 9pm as it's struggling to fit customers indoors due to coronavirus restrictions.

In a report, planning officers say: "The extension is required as a result of coronavirus and social distancing rules.

"The indoor space is too small on its own, with the whole internal seating area measuring just 3 x 3 metres. To make the business financially viable with social distancing in place, greater use of the outdoor seating is required."

There's been 38 letters in support, including Sheffield District Campaign for Real Ale Group..

Supporters say the extended hours will ensure the pub is financially viable and will help the local economy and jobs.

They say the pub is a valuable, safe community facility and meeting place, it increases footfall for other businesses and no noise issues have been reported since it opened in December.

They add that any noise would not be any greater than BBQs and get togethers in a garden and if the pub closed, it would leave an empty property.

There were five objections but planners hope they have reached a compromise with a 12 month temporary extension.

They say: "Within the shopping parade there are other later evening uses. The next door hot food take away operates until 11pm and the Co-op operates until 10pm.

"There would be a degree of noise and disturbance later into the evening which would potentially affect immediate households. This however is limited by the size of the venue and the nature of the business.

"A temporary consent is an acceptable and reasonable compromise that balances the amenity of residents with business needs."

Councillors will make a decision at a meeting on Tuesday, September 15. The application can be viewed here.

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