Seasonal outdoor seating at Strand Gardens, The Strand, Exmouth

“Approval is sought for the use of four grassed areas for the siting of tables and chairs on a seasonal basis for use by the surrounding businesses. The four parcels of land total approximately 560 square metres in area.”

“Temporary approval is sought for the siting of tables and chairs on the four parcels of land each year from 1st April to 30th September for three years until 30th September 2028.”

“The application site refers to a number of areas of grassed land in Strand Gardens at The Strand in Exmouth, within an area of pedestrianised public space within the town of Exmouth. The site is under the ownership of East Devon District Council.”

“The area is characterised by a mixture of commercial and business premises with residential accommodation above. It has a thriving cafe and bar culture where some of the premises have outdoor seating areas. The site is located within the Built-up Area Boundary (BuAB) of Exmouth and falls under a 'Town Centre Shopping Area' designation as defined by the Local Plan. The site is within the Exmouth Conservation Area and also falls within flood zones 2 and 3.”

“20/2383/COU Change of use of areas of land in Strand Gardens for the siting of tables and chairs until 30 September 2021 Temporary Approval 06.01.2021”

“23/0405/FUL Change of use of land for the siting of tables and chairs in association with adjoining businesses between Easter and the end of September until 2025 Approval with conditions 15.06.2023”

“Given that the Council would regulate operating hours through both licensing and the granting of the sitting-out consent, it is considered that these measures would be adequate to ensure businesses do not operate outdoors during unsociable hours, thereby preventing potential amenity impacts on residents living above the ground- floor commercial units.”

“Proposed seating areas 1 and 2 contain three significant Category A trees; T1 - Lime, T2 - London Plane and T3 - Horse Chestnut. The condition of the grass has deteriorated since the site has been used for the siting of tables and chairs. The Arboricultural Impact Assessment notes that there is evidence of soil compaction to all four of the areas proposed for seating.”

“Parish/Town Council Meeting 11.05.26 No objection; however, concerns were expressed regarding visual clutter and a lack of uniformity in The Strand. Members considered that these matters would be addressed and mitigated through the licence to occupy.”

“Environmental Health I have considered the application and do not anticipate any environmental health concerns.”

“Other Representations One third party representation has been received, in objection to the proposal.”

“- The proposed seating is not shut off after hours, leading to noise impacts and anti-social behaviour.”

“Location: Strand Gardens, The Strand, Exmouth.”

“RESOLVED: Approved with condition in accordance with officer recommendation.”

“The use of the land for the siting of tables and chairs is permitted annually from 1st April until 30th September until 30th September 2028, and the use shall cease, furniture removed and the land restored to its former condition on or before 30th September in any year.”

“Within two months of the date of this approval, details of mitigation measures to restore the soil health following removal of the seating at the end of each season, including the timetable for the mitigation works, shall be submitted to and approved in writing by Local Planning Authority. The works shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details and specification.”