Wooden climbing frame at Windrush Inn, Burford Road, Witney

What officers recommended

Officers considered the frame appropriate for the pub garden, visually acceptable and compatible with the community use of the pub.

“When considering the proposal against the above, Officers consider the proposed climbing frame to be appropriate and compatible development within an established pub garden. The proposed development would complement the use of the site as a valuable community asset, which in turn contributes to sustaining the viability of the pub.”

“Proposed is the erection of a wooden climbing frame, within the curtilage of the Windrush pub in Witney. The climbing frame is a timber framed construction, consisting of timber posts and support cross beams and is located on the eastern side of the fenced garden adjacent to the pub. The climbing frame is 5.9 x 1 metres; its height is 2.9 metres.”

Officer report

Effect on neighbours

Officers considered the modest, open structure would not cause significant harm through overlooking, loss of light, overbearing effects or noise.

“The proposed climbing frame is 6 metres away from neighbouring properties that overlook the existing pub garden. Officers acknowledge the concerns raised regarding potential overlooking and loss of privacy. However, it is considered that the structure constitutes an appropriate addition to the ancillary pub garden. It is of modest height and within the existing garden area, facing the public facing elevations of nearby dwellings.”

“Officers acknowledge the concern raised regarding noise from the climbing frame; however, it is considered that any such noise would be comparable to, and not materially different from, the level of noise ordinarily associated with activity in a busy pub garden and would therefore not result in any adverse impact.”

Officer report

Town council response

Witney Town Council objected because of potential privacy and noise effects and asked whether a location farther from neighbours could be found.

“Parish Council Witney Town Council objects to this application.”

“While Members welcome the provision of family-friendly play facilities, they are concerned about the impact on neighbouring residential amenity, particularly in terms of loss of privacy and noise, as highlighted by residents. The application conflicts with Policy OS4 of the West Oxfordshire Local Plan, which states that development should not harm the use or enjoyment of nearby land and buildings, including the living conditions of residential properties.”

Officer report

Public views

Most responses supported the safe children’s facility and its community benefits, while objections focused on overlooking, loss of privacy and noise.

“Safe, well thought out place for children to play • Asset to the pub, helping to community facilities, asset to local community benefit • Well-designed good quality structure safe and secure • Does not impact the character and appearance of the area • Appropriate facility compatible with the adjoining pub use • Essential facility for resident well being • Support local business which adds value to the local community • Social, economic and community benefits to the local…”

“Design and layout are not appropriate and will give rise to overlooking and loss of privacy to the neighbouring properties.”

Officer report

Who spoke

A speaker opposed the application and sought relocation, while the applicant explained the frame’s design, safety and practical location constraints.

Members’ discussion

Members recognised the pub’s family use and neighbours’ concerns, suggesting screening to reduce garden noise through cooperation.

“The Chair invited the Sub-Committee to discuss the application which raised the following points: • Members acknowledged the pub owners enhancing the use of the garden for a place for local families to use. • Members acknowledged the concerns of the speaker and neighbours and suggested that there could be screening to lessen the noise from the garden by way of both owner and neighbours working together.”

Minutes

The vote

Councillor Liam Walker proposed approval, Councillor Andrew Lyon seconded it, and the vote was unanimous.

“Councillor Liam Walker proposed the Sub-Committee approve the application in line with the officer recommendations. This was seconded by Councillor Andrew Lyon and put to the vote.”

Minutes

The decision

The Sub-Committee approved the application in line with the officer recommendation.

“The Sub-Committee Resolved to: Approve the application in line with officer recommendations.”

Minutes