CONTROVERSIAL plans for a pub in Popley have been recommended for approval by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) planning chiefs.

Plans for a pub in Carpenter’s Down, proposed by Marston’s Brewery have been in the pipeline since February when an application was first submitted.

Now, the application is due to be heard at a BDBC development control committee meeting on Wednesday and has been recommended for approval by council planning officers.

The proposal is for a 'Generous George' style pub, which is the family-centred brand of Marston's, to cater for 150 covers, as well as 54 car parking spaces.

As previously reported by the Gazette, the plans have been opposed by residents, concerned about the noise and anti-social behaviour that could come from having a pub so close to their home. Other concerns also included that it would be out of character with the area, and car parking problems would be made worse by the increase in traffic to the area.

However, a report to be presented at the meeting reads: “Given the open and verdant character of the area, it is recognised that the proposal will alter the general amenities of the area. However, given the amended position, materials and design of the building and its car park within the landscape framework proposed, it is considered that the proposal would be an efficient use of the land that respects the local environment and would be in keeping with the character of the area.

“The proposal would not compromise highway safety in that a safe access point is being provided together with appropriate on–site parking provision. The positioning of the building and its outside uses i.e. play area, beer garden, together with proposed windows reflecting the internal functioning of the building, would respect the amenities of neighbouring properties and not result in such significant adverse odour or light pollution levels to warrant refusal of the planning application."

Councillors on the committee will now decide the fate of the application.

If planning consent is gained at the meeting on Wednesday, the pub would still need to gain a licence from BDBC for activities such as the selling of alcohol and playing of recorded music before it could open. This is to be discussed at a licensing sub-committee meeting on Monday, 11 September.

For a full report from both meetings, see next week’s Gazette.