New beer garden approved for Washington Wetherspoons pub The Sir William de Wessyngton - this is what will be included

Earlier this year, plans were validated for The Sir William de Wessyngton off Victoria Road, in Concord, to change the use of vacant land.

This included an outdoor drinking area at the side of the venue with three large acoustic canopies, in addition to the existing beer garden to the rear.

The site will be enclosed by a wall and acoustic fencing with access taken from the rear of the pub and directly onto the street from the front.

A 2.5m width space will also remain by the side of the premises to retain a pedestrian access route.

During consultation, plans for the Wetherspoons pub sparked objections from two neighbours over potential noise issues and increased litter.

One comment added the development would make the remaining footpath an “intimidating and unpleasant route for pedestrians.”

Despite this, Sunderland City Council’s planning authority said the scheme was acceptable and approved the plans on Tuesday, September 8.

A decision report reads: “The objectors are understandably concerned about the introduction of a new outdoor drinking area within the vicinity of residential properties.

“However, the new area will be to the side of the building; an outdoor beer garden already exists to the rear of the premises in closer proximity to housing, which will be improved by replacement acoustic fencing.”

It goes on to say: “Additionally, the enclosed nature of the area with access from the building or the front only, and no direct access from the rear, will not lead to drinkers spilling onto the footpaths between the shopping area or the street.

“Users of the remaining footpath should not feel any less safe as it will be screened and physically separated from drinkers by the high solid boundary enclosure.

“The contained nature of the area by the high boundary enclosures and canopies also means that there should be no additional litter problem as a direct result of the development.”

A noise impact assessment was also submitted to the council and reviewed by public health experts.

They concluded that the proposed company policy of preventing amplified music outdoors, together with the acoustic screen and canopies, were “acceptable measures.”

The outdoor seating area will be allowed to open during the daytime and close at 11pm, seven days a week.

Under planning conditions, work must be brought forward within the next three years.

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