Plans have been submitted to change a former ceramics studio in North Shields into a micropub.
Following a North Tyneside planning committee meeting next week, 12A Russell Street could become the official new home of the Tipsy Pig micro pub. In November last year, councillors approved an alcohol license for the premises, but now they are set to decide on the building’s prospective change of use.
The alcohol license was issued by the authority despite a petition of 46 signatures calling for the application to be rejected. The petition said the location is “wholly unsuitable for a business of this kind”, with the signatories also believing there were already enough pubs in North Shields town centre.
The applicant, Debbie Stevens, defended her licensing application stating the prospective watering hole would operate responsibly, attract a “mature clientele”, offer primarily craft beers and engage with neighbours, the council, and police.
A similar letter and petition, again containing 46 signatures, has been submitted by locals to the planning committee raising concerns including noise levels, traffic and privacy.
The council’s report on the planning application however, concluded: “On balance, and with regard to all of the above, it is officer opinion that the proposed micropub is an appropriate use of this vacant unit. It would provide an alternative use of the building and would improve the vitality and vibrancy of this part of the town centre, whilst contributing to the local daytime and evening economy.”
The report also states: “Concerns relating to anti-social behaviour are noted. However, a fear of crime or anti-social behaviour is not sufficient reason to withhold planning application.
“There must be evidence on which to base this fear and in this case it is not considered that there is any evidence that the proposed use would add to any existing anti-social behaviour problems.”
Councillors will gather on Tuesday, January 14 at the local authority’s Cobalt HQ to decide on the planning application.
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