Pub to dismantle outdoor tipi after refusal decision
A refusal decision by Bury Council has left locals who go to The Eagle and Child in Ramsbottom heartbroken and rallying in support of the establishment.
The Whalley Road pub, which was crowned CAMRA's UK Pub of the Year in 2017, announced the tipi will be taken down on July 28.
The tipi, which seats up to 72 guests, was erected during the pandemic as part of efforts to help the pub survive the crisis.
It quickly became a staple for private functions and community events and was described by owners Daniel Thwaites Ltd as 'an essential part of the business".
However, planning permission was never granted, and retrospective applications – including a recent bid for an 18-month extension – were all rejected.
Bury Council's main concerns cited noise, traffic, and the impact on neighbouring properties.
In a Facebook post, the team wrote: 'We are very sad to be losing our tipi…
"We have loved sharing your birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, retirements, christenings, baby showers, cakes and sip, wreath making and all sorts of other events.'
The post sparked an outpouring of support and sympathy from regulars and fans of the venue, many branding the decision 'outrageous' and 'such a loss".
One commenter wrote: 'So, so sad…minority spoiling it for the majority."
Another added: 'Gutted for you. Those who objected should be ashamed. But I'm sure it won't stop people coming to visit.'
An enforcement notice was issued earlier this year ordering the pub to remove the tipi by May 5.
Though Thwaites appealed, the council ultimately upheld the action.
A report said the structure was 'seriously detrimental to the residential amenities of surrounding residents' and labelled it an 'eyesore".
The decision has sparked wider debate in the community, with some arguing the tipi added charm and life to the area, while others backed the council's stance.
Cllr Gareth Staples-Jones criticised how the process unfolded, saying: 'As ward councillors, we were not made aware of this decision.
"If residents had concerns, it would've been helpful to have known earlier so we could have tried to find a middle ground.
'Waiting until a retrospective planning application to hammer in nails feels wrong.'
In its final weeks, the pub is offering half-price hire of the tipi and encouraging patrons to book while they still can.
'As ever,' the Facebook post added, 'we do not allow live music, all events must be finished by 10pm outside, we are open until midnight inside.
'If you are looking for a quirky fun venue to host your summer event, please get in touch.'
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