West Midlands pub wins battle to have amplified TV screens in garden as community rallies round again
Community rallies round a second time as pub wins battle keep outdoor sound system
A pub which was told it could keep an outdoor shelter built without planning permission after the public rallied to its support has now won a second battle to keep its amplified outdoor television.
The Swan in Long Lane, Halesowen, was granted retrospective planning permission in December to retain the shelter which had been erected in the garden, on condition that no amplified sound equipment was used.
But Black Country Traditional Inns, which operates the pub, has now succeeded in getting the condition lifted, despite objections from the next-door neighbours.
Residents Paul Worthington and Tony Dainty, who live immediately next to the pub garden, had complained about noise and light pollution as a result of the television screens.
The pub was given permission to retain the shelter on condition there would be no amplified sound, including from television screens.
Mr Worthington said that the condition was imposed to prevent nuisance to neighbours, and that removing it would have a detrimental impact on his household.
But four letters were submitted in support of the application.
Tanya Hill-Thompson, from Quinton, praised The Swan as a friendly and well-run pub, and said the televisions were much appreciated by the customers, particularly during major football tournaments.
“The TVs attracted a lot of people and families, including local residents, to the pub to enjoy the atmosphere with friends,” she wrote.
Neighbour Nicola Price of Woodland Road added: “We value having a local pub that offers a welcoming atmosphere and occasional entertainment, and we believe this adds positively to the local community without causing harm to nearby residents.”
Emma Bailey, from the nearby cat and kitten rescue centre in Hillwood Road, said she used the pub for fundraising events, including the garden area, and the noise was always kept to a minimum.
Michael Brereton, director of development and regulation at Dudley Council, granted permission on a temporary 12-month basis, to give officers the chance to assess the impact on neighbours.
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.