A bar and restaurant in Churchtown has warned it could go out of business after being told by Sefton Council to remove the awning on its terrace. Suzie's Churchtown, which opened in November, features a wraparound terrace partly covered by an awning, which it describes as an invaluable space for the community.
Council demands removal
Sefton Council has instructed the restaurant to take down the awning because it was installed without planning permission. A retrospective application was also refused, as the building lies within a conservation area and the awning was deemed out of character with the surroundings.
The council's Churchtown and North Meols conservation area document states: Churchtown village has a uniformity of character that is particularly distinctive, epitomised by the small scale domestic dwellings, often whitewashed and thatched and the tightly-knit street pattern. Within the conservation areas, it is not the intention to prevent change but rather to ensure that any new development, alterations or extensions are in keeping with its character and that any harm is balanced against wider public benefits.
Community support
A petition against the council's decision has garnered over 2,700 signatures. Cara Quinn, general manager at Suzie's, told the ECHO that 90% of customers request the terrace area because it is so lovely. In winter it is cosy, and in summer the roof can be removed and sides lowered to create an outdoor feel.
She highlighted that the restaurant supports local charities and hosts events like craft mornings on the terrace, often made possible only by the awning's protection from the weather. Before Suzie's opened, the building had been empty for approximately two years. Quinn said the restaurant has enhanced that part of Churchtown, bringing visitors from Liverpool, Preston, and beyond, increasing footfall to the village.
Quinn added that the restaurant employs around 35 staff, and if the awning had to be removed, two-thirds of them would likely lose their jobs.
Proposed solutions
The restaurant has called for dialogue with the council to explore alternative solutions, suggesting shared maintenance responsibilities, local fundraisers, or integrating the terrace into a broader community enhancement plan. Quinn noted that a roundabout opposite the restaurant is maintained by volunteers, and Suzie's has offered to fund its upkeep and contribute in other ways, such as erecting a Christmas tree in winter.
She expressed concern that without the awning, the restaurant could close, leaving another empty building on the corner, which would be an eyesore.
Council response
A Sefton Council spokesperson said the extension was built without planning permission and that all building owners must adhere to the same rules. The retrospective application was refused due to its impact on the conservation area and on residents' living conditions. The applicant has appealed, and the council is awaiting the outcome. The authority said it is always happy to discuss proposals through its pre-application service.
