Pub ordered to remove outdoor tipi and bar

The Eagle and Child pub's owners erected the 72-seat tipi during the pandemic

A pub in Greater Manchester has been ordered to remove a large tipi and bar in its beer garden which it had put up during the coronavirus pandemic.

The owners of the Eagle and Child on Whalley Road in Ramsbottom said the circular tented tepee, outside bar, pergola and toilet block were an "essential part of the business".

But in early October, Bury Council rejected a retrospective planning application which would allow the pub to keep the outdoor structures permanently.

The local authority said the application was refused mainly due to noise and traffic issues, as well as design and appearance.

A planning report said neighbours were notified of the plans in August and 21 objections had been received.

In documents submitted in support of the plans, owners, brewery Daniel Thwaites, said: “It is used for drinking and dining and is essentially an extension of the pub and is an essential part of the business.

"The works have significantly improved the outdoor experience for customers.

“The garden, in its previous form, lacked investment and failed to provide the quality environment that customers now expect."

The Eagle and Child pub looks over Holcombe Hill and Peel tower

A spokesman from Daniel Thwaites told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “The tipi was installed post-Covid as part of The Eagle and Child’s recovery plan and has since been very well received by customers and local community groups.

"Following a recent planning decision, we are currently reviewing our options and are aiming to meet with Bury’s planning team to find a solution that works for all parties.”

The Eagle and Child was crowned UK Pub of the Year in 2017 and was also named best food pub in the Manchester Food and Drinks Awards two years earlier.