Storm over cottage pub plan

From the archive, first published Friday 26th Jan 2007.

A plan to convert a cottage into a 150-seat pub and restaurant is cooking up a storm in a village.

Dozens of residents have already expressed fears about the plan, submitted by the Ideal Restaurant Company, for premises at 54 Main Street, Menston.

Peter Ward, chairman of the Menston Community Association and Wharfedale Councillor, Chris Greaves, have notified 160 nearby residents about the plan and advised them on how to object.

The letter said: "You may be concerned about noise late in the evening, from outside drinkers, vehicle movement from noise from the live and recorded music.

"You may also be concerned about the inevitable parking problems that will be caused by customers and staff having to park on local roads.

"It is worth noting that from July, the new no smoking' rules will no doubt increase the numbers of patrons drinking outside. This will, however, not only by an evening operation but will be open throughout the day, and it is next to the school."

Coun Greaves said he had already had 24 replies from villagers worried about the plan.

Meanwhile, Mr Ward said the on-street parking generated by the business had the potential to "swamp" the village and could block access to the school for emergency vehicles.