Pub's beer garden extended 'without permission'

Kirklees Council said the Brooks Arms did not have planning permission for the work

People living near a pub have claimed that their privacy is "under threat" after the business began expanding its beer garden without permission.

Residents of Dalton, near Huddersfield, have complained to Kirklees Council after the Brooks Arms began extending its garden towards the pavement, including erecting fencing and 10ft poles with fairy lights.

Stonegate Group, which owns the pub, said it was in contact with the council and contractors had paused work while they "reviewed the next steps".

Kirklees Council confirmed there was no planning permission in place for the works.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, in an objection sent to the council a resident said they were concerned about privacy and potential crime.

They said: "We have serious concerns about the impact this will have on our local neighbourhood.

"The beer garden faces directly on to our property, threatening our right to privacy and peaceful enjoyment of our home.

"We are concerned about the potential for increased anti-social behaviour and associated safety risks.

"Such a development risks negatively affecting local property values and the overall character of the area."

Councillor Graham Turner said: "We've been made aware of works being carried out at this property without the necessary planning permission, and have already been in touch with the contractor asking them to cease all work immediately."

The Brooks Arms is part of the Craft Union Pub Company, owned by the Stonegate Group.

A spokesperson for the group said: "The works undertaken relate to fencing and posts to hang festoon lighting to improve the outdoor space for customers.

"We take matters like this seriously and are committed to working with the relevant authorities to ensure all necessary permissions are in place."

A notice on the pub door, which is partially obscured by railings that surround the building, explained the company has applied for the "minor variation" of a premises licence for "changes to fixed seating".

It said the public can write to Kirklees Council with any representations by 6 August .