By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
More than 2,000 people have signed a petition backing Julian Dunkerton’s latest plans for Number 131 Promenade while planning officers fear they will harm its historic Cheltenham town centre setting.
Cheltenham Borough Council is due to consider tomorrow (February 13) two separate proposals for a covered outside seating area at 129-133.
Both proposals include the installation of solar panels on the rooves of 125-127 and 133 and removal of existing conservatory to the side of 133 .
Prominent white marquees replaced parasols outside the grade-II* listed 131 and 133 in October 2020 as a temporary measure to facilitate outside dining during the coronavirus pandemic.
However, after the relaxation rules ended, initial proposals to keep the structures for a further two years were rejected by Cheltenham Borough Council in November 2022.
This decision was upheld by a planning inspector during the summer in 2023 and the council is in the process of enforcing this decision which would require their removal.
As a result he submitted plans to the council in October for a permanent terrace to replace the temporary structures in a bid to protect the more than 130 jobs at the venue and fortify Cheltenham’s appeal as a premium destination.
The new terrace structure offers two design options: a glass structure with decorative ironwork which, those behind the scheme say, is in keeping with many regency buildings around Cheltenham including No 131 itself, or a slim, unobtrusive metal pergola with a retractable roof.
Both options complement the Regency architecture, designed with award-winning local architects and heritage experts, Mr Dunkerton’s planning consultants say.
He says there is overwhelming support for his proposals as more than 2,000 people have signed a petition in favour and more than 80 per cent of comments on the Cheltenham Borough Council website expressing approval.
He says the public has recognised the importance of this development in sustaining the town’s hospitality sector and preserving Cheltenham’s reputation as a premier destination for visitors and cultural events.
“I am delighted by the incredible support from the people of Cheltenham, and I remain committed to investing in the town,” Julian Dunkerton said.
But the proposals look likely to be turned down by the Borough Council’s planning committee on Thursday (February 13) as officers have raised concerns over the harm it will have on the listed buildings and its historic and architecturally important setting.
They have recommended refusing both proposals as they consider neither scheme to be acceptable and both are at odds with local and national planning policies.