Historic Northumberland pub reopens as bistro as plans for village shop approved
An historic pub has reopened as a new bistro as plans to convert the snooker hall into a village shop are given the green light.
The shop will be situated next to the Taste of Northumberland bistro in Broomhill, which opened on Thursday, July 13 at the former Trap Inn.
The plans came before the South East Northumberland Local Area Planning Committee as the applicant is serving councillor Scott Dickinson.
Following the opening of the restaurant, Scott said: “It’s been truly amazing, from the building to the staff to all the customers.
“Head chef Kevin Wright has been tremendous. His food has been five-star and complimented from the first meal. Likewise, our breakfast and sweet treat chef Tracey Aberdeen’s scones sold out in hours.
“Jonathan and our front of house team have also been truly exceptional for the first day.”
The shop would be “community focused” and sell “convenience goods and household essentials” as well as Northumbrian food, drink, gifts and crafts.
Members heard there was no objections from local residents or from statutory consultees including the council’s highways department.
However, some felt there was not enough parking provided for both the bistro and the shop.
Cllr 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.”
Cllr 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.