Richmond pub lodges appeal to keep beer garden

The owners of a Richmond pub have appealed against the refusal of retrospective planning permission for improvements to its beer garden.

Stonegate Group has asked the Planning Inspectorate to overturn North Yorkshire Council’s decision to refuse permission for work at The Talbot Hotel, in the market place.

The work, carried out in July 2025, involved replacing two concrete areas with patio surfacing and installing timber fencing to create a garden terrace.

The council refused permission in May after concluding the work had formalised the beer garden and resulted in more intensive use close to neighbouring homes.

The application attracted 11 objections, including from residents of neighbouring properties.

Concerns included increased noise and disturbance, particularly during the evening, as well as the impact of customers coming and going and the sustained occupation of the terrace.

Residents also raised concerns about noise when doors providing access to the terrace were opened and closed, and light spilling from external lighting into neighbouring properties.

Richmond Town Council objected due to concerns about excessive noise disturbing residents, while the council’s environmental protection team also opposed the scheme.

Environmental health officers said they had received noise complaints in August 2025 which coincided with the opening of the refurbished terrace. They concluded its use was likely to have a detrimental impact on people living nearby.

However, the application also received 28 letters of support, with supporters highlighting the importance of maintaining a viable town centre pub, improved facilities and the contribution the business makes to Richmond’s social life.

Stonegate disputes the council’s conclusions.

Planning consultants Bidwells, acting for the company, argue that the land was already part of the pub and used for outdoor customer seating before the improvements.

They say there has been no increase in the capacity of the garden area and that the fencing has actually created a more restricted terrace with fewer tables and chairs, while providing some visual and acoustic screening.

The company adds that issues arising from customers using the outside area can be dealt with through the pub’s premises licence rather than the planning system.

Stonegate says the improvements are important to The Talbot’s commercial viability, helping it attract customers and supporting jobs.

Its appeal statement describes the council’s refusal as “draconian” and says the authority should instead support the hospitality sector.