Outdoor dining plans get the go-ahead at The Chester Fields #News

Victoria Hayes
15th June 2021

Taste Cheshire award winning pub and restaurant The Chester Fields has been give the go-ahead to build a fabulous balcony terrace.

This addition will offer customers uninterrupted views of the stunning Cheshire countryside.

Planning consent has been granted by Cheshire West and Chester Council for a new entrance porch, balcony terrace and retractable sun awning as part of its plans to revamp its outdoor dining facilities.

The Chester Fields is also pleased to report that the development will create eleven new roles including three full time positions and eight part time jobs.

In the full planning application, submitted on behalf of The Chester Fields, it adds that “the new outside dining area will enhance the facilities on offer by the pub so that they can provide future outside weddings”.

The design and access statement said: “The new entrance porch will enhance the entrance and will provide a draught lobby. 

“To make the most of the stunning views it is proposed to construct a first floor balcony terrace which can be enjoyed by the customers.

“In order to expand the business the proposed retractable sun awning will provide external dining or wedding facilities.”

The Chester Fields is already a stunning wedding venue and we can’t wait to see what these additions bring to the party.

In a report recommending approval, case officer Edward Shepherd said: “In terms of the proposed porch, which would be readily visible from Warrington Road, the design and glazing would not be in keeping with the original agricultural character of the building.

“However, owing to the contemporary design, modest scale and existing commercial use it is considered that the structure would be acceptable in its own right, viewed as well-designed modern intervention which matches previous additions/alterations such as the glazed façade at the rear.

“The awning and balcony section, would be of limited visibility and represent a relatively lightweight functional addition in an area which benefits from a lawful terrace area already.

“The awning would be retractable limiting the visual prominence and harm.” 

He added: “In assessing whether there are very special circumstances, which justify the harm/inappropriateness of the development within the Green Belt, it is invaluable to note that the retractable awning would be replacing a existing lean too covered area which was constructed without permission and now benefits from immunity.

“The new awning would be well contained within the existing site, effectively infilling an area which is already used as a seating area by the public house.

“Furthermore, the awning would be retractable unlike the existing structure, minimising the harm to the openness of the Green Belt.

“The applicant has further indicated that the awning would be critical to enhance outdoor capacity, necessary during the Covid-19 pandemic, as such it is also evident that the proposal would have a significant economic benefit for the business.”

The Chester Fields has already developed and opened a sister business on the premises during the lockdown period, Oak and Smoke, their stunning pizza place operates from a dedicated building in the garden of the pub. They have also been offering BBQ cooking classes in association with Chef Brian Mellor and Weber grills.

Not forgetting their Alpaca experience, for a family day out with a difference.

The Chester Fields is known as a market leader in Cheshire Food and Drink scene. The constantly innovate and inspire new approaches to hospitality. Plus, they really do make a wonderful Sunday Roast.