PLANNING chiefs at Warrington are studying proposals to convert a café into a “micro-pub” – three years after the change actually took place.
They have been told there have been no complaints from neighbours during the three years the premises has been operating as a drinking establishment without planning consent.
The retrospective application now being considered by borough council officers involves The Anchor and Hops, a terraced property in Walton Road, Stockton Heath.
Currently, the premises is subject to restricted opening hours as its planning consent is for a café. It is proposed to extend the hours to the standard licensing hours.
However, in reality the opening hours are likely to be considerably less, planners have been told. At present they are 4.30pm to 10.30pm Sunday-to-Wednesday and 4pm to 11.30pm Thursday-to-Saturday.
The current restriction on opening hours has a negative effect on the viability of the business as patrons have to leave earlier than those of other nearby licensed premises.
The proposals would create a more level playing field allowing the new business to compete with other, more established premises in the area and hopefully become an asset to Stockton Heath’s evening economy.
Planners have been told there is nothing to suggest that the current use which has been operating for three years without incident is likely to result in detriment to the amenities of nearby neighbours.
Planning officers will rule on the application shortly.
