Pub 'barn' extension proposed in Blackburn
A popular roadside pub and restaurant could be extended with a new ‘barn-style’ dining area. The structure at the Grey Mare Inn on the Grane Road out of Blackburn near Belthorn would replace an ‘unattractive’ marquee.
Daniel Thwaites PLC has applied to Hyndburn Council for permission for the upgrade at the tenanted pub to secure its future,
A supporting statement says: “The premises have a good reputation locally for its high-quality food and is popular place to dine out. It is renowned for being one of the highest pubs in England and occupies a scenic location with attractive views across the moors above Lancashire
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“The premises front onto the B6233 Elton Road and are located directly to the east of its junction with Jackson Heights Road. They are part two-storey and part single-storey and traditional in appearance.
“A large marquee is installed on the patio. This was erected in the summer of 2020, although it was not installed due to Covid.
“Indeed, fortuitously, it had been ordered prior to the pandemic and was being erected to provide the pub with additional dining covers due to the small size of the premises. It is also worthy of note that never has there been a time when the provision of a food offer has been more important to the viability and long-term future of a pub.
“Indeed, an overwhelming proportion of the pubs that are currently failing and closing are solely drinking establishments or drinking establishments with a very limited food offer. It is evident from that the current marquee does not have planning permission.
“It was erected in the summer of 2020 (therefore substantially complete before April 2024) and thus is lawful by virtue of time. Planning policy at all levels seeks to protect public houses, particularly in rural villages.
“The Grey Mare is one of only a handful of public houses serving the surrounding rural hinterland. Investment which will help keep it viable should therefore be welcomed and supported.
“The development will facilitate the replacement of the existing unattractive marquee structure and provide the pub with a high-quality purpose-built single-storey side dining extension connected to the pub via a small, glazed link extension. To reflect the site’s rural setting, it is proposed that the extension have a rustic ‘barn’ appearance.
“The existing marquee structure is no longer considered to be fit for purpose as there are periods of the year when the weather is inclement when it can’t be used. In doing so it will ensure the pub has a secure long-term future and is economically viable.
“This planning application seeks [to] provide the pub with a permanent dining extension which can be used all year round.”