Peterborough pub garden revamp approved despite objection

The application for the outdoor revamp at The Gordon Arms on Oundle Road, Orton Longueville from Greene King, the country’s leading pub retailer, did draw a complaint from the parish council, but was approved this week.

The works will see the installation of a new arch pergola, erection of a 900mm high picket fence and landscaping including resin bound gravel and post and festoon lights.

Additional landscaping to planter beds, new fixed trellis screens to existing low level wallscreating feature seating sections and timber planter boxes with spike lights is also planned.

Acknowledging the building’s significant historical importance which contributes to the character of the area, the application says: “The proposed scheme has been designed sympathetically to complement the existing building by using good quality materials. The external works will have little impact on the building’s appearance, however they will improve the usability and appeal to local customers.

“The proposal will greatly enhance the use of the external garden area and bring a better customer experience.”

However, Orton Longueville Parish Council wrote to the planning department to object, saying: “We find the festoon lights/lighting ill-considered and seriously damaging to the character and appearance of this important and prominent listed building. Furthermore, such lights will be distracting to motorists – both those coming off the parkway slip road onto Oundle Road and those already driving along Oundle Road in either direction.”

The pub is currently closed during Lockdown.