Council verdict on controversial plan to turn suburban newsagent shop into Preston micropub

Shocked residents in Fulwood objected to Broadway News converting to a micro-pub in a largely residential area. Now planning officers have thrown out the scheme saying it would have an "adverse impact” on people living nearby.

The owner of the shop wanted to open it as a drinking establishment with seating outside, just yards from houses in Broadway, described by planners as a "quiet" street. But the idea sparked a strong reaction from locals, backed by two Lib-Dem councillors Fiona Duke and Tony Raisbeck.

Coun Duke said there were concerns over noise disruption during the evening with the bar intending to open until 11pm on Monday to Saturday. She said neighbours feared rowdy behaviour, with the outdoor seating area "likely to have a detrimental impact on residents."

Coun Raisbeck said that in addition to concerns over noise in the late evening, the bar could have an impact on parking, which was "already a contentious issue in the area." He added that the location was "already more than adequately provided for in terms of drinking and dining establishments."

The council's planning department received 10 letters of objection. Reasons included the residential area being an "inappropriate location" for a bar. The locals raised concerns over its impact on the character of the area, increased litter, increased noise and disturbance, increased crime and anti-social behaviour, loss of privacy and its effect on already existing parking and traffic issues.

A report by planning officers said it was felt nearby homes "would be subjected to undue noise levels arising from the proposed drinking establishment." A noise impact assessment document submitted with the application was considered to be inadequate. The applicant had therefore "failed to provide sufficient detail about the potential impact upon the neighbouring properties in terms of noise and how this would be mitigated."

The report went on: "The area along Broadway is generally quiet. To introduce another licensed premises at this location, used purely as a drinking establishment, would result in an adverse impact on the amenity currently enjoyed by locals.

"The area is mainly residential and there are houses in close proximity to the property. For these reasons, the location is considered unsuitable for this type of premises."