Hucknall pub can have outdoor seating in a victory for people power

Door 57, on Nabbs Lane, was initially refused outdoor seating on noise grounds – despite the Nabb Inn with its large beer garden being next door.

The venue wanted outdoor seating to the front and rear of the bar, as it would be more cost-effective for the business and allow people to enjoy a drink outside in the summer sun at the venue.

However, Ashfield Council initially refused, saying: “Outdoor seating would have a detrimental impact on the amenity and living conditions of nearby residents by virtue of additional noise and disturbance generated from the premises.”

This decision was branded ‘ludicrous’ by regulars and a petition was started to get the decision overturned.

And people power has won the day after members of council’s planning committee voted unanimously in favour of the outdoor seating proposals – going against planning officers’ recommendations.

Posting on it’s Facebook page, Door 57 said: “Fantastic news, this morning, council planning committee voted unanimously to allow outdoor seating at Door 57 both to the front and rear of our lovely bar.

"We would like to thank everyone for their support and look forward to spending many more years serving you inside and out – thank you.”

Several people have also commented on the page with many calling it brilliant news and “common sense”.

One said: “Great news, the right and only decision.”

Another posted: “Common sense finally prevails, that’s amazing.”

And a third posted: That is fantastic news, it made no sense to decline the application, looking forward to sitting in the sunshine and having a cheeky drink with you soon.”

Coun Lee Waters, who represents Hucknall Central on the council and successfully moved the vote against officers’ recommendations said: “I was delighted to successfully propose the vote against officer’s recommendations to give Door 57 permission to trade outdoors.

"Hucknall councillors are very clear we will support our night-time economy in Hucknall.

"Refusing this application would have led to the bar being unfairly restricted, compared to neighbouring businesses.

"We felt this was unfair and we were delighted to give this small business the chance to blossom.”