Published: March 22, 2008
Burnham seafront pub removes decking after losing bid to retain it

The owner of a seafront pub in Burnham-On-Sea has this week dismantled a controversial raised decking area outside his premises after losing a planning bid to retain it.

Sedgemoor planners ruled last year that Chaplins on The Esplanade had breached planning regulations by installing the raised decking area, pictured right, complete with timber balustrading and screen panels, in front of its property.

But the pub's owner, Colin Spence, appealed against an enforcement notice issued by Sedgemoor District Council.

He applied to The Planning Inspectorate in an attempt to get the judgement overturned and keep the raised decking area in place.

However, the bid failed earlier this year and the Inspectorate upheld the decision by asking the pub to remove the decking, saying it can keep only its patio doors providing its makes several minor changes.

The Planning Inspectorate considered the effect of the development on neighbours with regards to noise and overlooking; and also whether the development preserves or enhances the character of its surroundings.

In the last few days, the decking has been completed removed outside the pub, ending the two-year saga.