Plans to convert the former snooker hall at a Northumberland pub into a village shop have been given the go-ahead. The shop will be situated next to the new Taste of Northumberland bistro, which is due to open on Thursday at what was the Trap Inn in Broomhill.
Community-focused shop
The shop, which operates as part of the wider redevelopment of the site, would be "community focused" and sell "convenience goods and household essentials" as well as locally produced Northumbrian food, drink, gifts and crafts.
The plans came before the South East Northumberland Local Area Planning Committee on Monday, as the applicant is serving councillor Scott Dickinson. Members heard there was no objections from local residents or from statutory consultees including the council's highways department.
Parking concerns raised
Despite this, some members felt there was not enough parking provided for both the bistro and the shop. Coun Mark Swinburn said: "I do have concerns over whether there is sufficient parking. I don't think there's enough. I'm not satisfied the current parking is enough to cover what is going to be here from this development."
Planning officer Judith Murphy explained that the application had been assessed by highways officers who found no issue with the parking provision. There is an existing car park with 30 spaces on the site that will be retained. Mrs Murphy added: "In their deliberations they have decided the parking to the rear is sufficient. That is what they have considered and they don't deem there to be an issue."
Approval granted
Coun Sonia Simm admitted she was not happy about the highways issues, but added: "We have to consider if it would go to appeal and it if would be allowed on appeal. As much as I'm not comfortable with the potential for parking issues, on paper there is no reason to refuse it. We have to be mindful of that."
The plans were approved by five votes to three.
