Balsall Common Pub Wins Planning Battle to Keep Fence and Outdoor Bar
In a significant decision, Solihull Council planners have gone against official advice to allow a village pub to retain its already constructed outdoor facilities. The Brickmakers Arms in Balsall Common will now keep its two-metre perimeter fencing, outdoor bar area, and large screen on a raised platform in the beer garden.
A Retrospective Application Saga
The saga began when pub landlord Kevin McKloskey applied for retrospective planning permission after installing the features. An initial application was refused in March of last year, leading to a revised submission that was considered by Solihull Council’s planning committee. The application remained largely identical, with the only change being that the perimeter fencing had been painted black.
At a committee meeting in December, concerns were raised about the fence creating a jarring contrast with the heritage building. However, at the latest meeting, planners heard that the Station Road pub had made improvements through landscaping efforts.
Pub Landlord’s Plea for Support
During public speaking, Mr. McKloskey explained the context behind the changes. “Since we took over the pub in 2023 it was in a state of disrepair both inside and out,” he said. “The disrepair included a botched fence which following us taking over very nearly caused serious harm to a young child who mounted the fence. The fence crumbled beneath her – luckily only minor injuries were sustained.”
This incident prompted the installation of the new fence. After feedback from the first meeting, the pub added mature planting, including eight to ten-foot laurel trees, to mitigate visual concerns. “Here we are begging. (Closure) is the other option,” McKloskey added, highlighting the stakes involved.
Councillors Rally Behind the Pub
Councillor Heather Delaney emphasized the importance of supporting local pubs, noting that Balsall Common has seen a reduction from five to four pubs. “We really do want to support this pub to stay a thriving part of the village,” she stated.
Planning officer Rebecca Hadley maintained a recommendation for refusal, arguing that planting should not be relied upon to make an otherwise harmful development acceptable. She asserted that the proposal failed both visual amenity and heritage tests.
However, councillors disagreed. Councillor Bernadette Donnelly praised the improvements, saying, “It is much improved by putting in the laurels. They are evergreens, they stay that colour throughout the year. It is the perfect shrub to put on the perimeter.”
Councillor Dave Pinwell, who had previously expressed concerns about the fence, noted after a visit, “I’m absolutely delighted to see the planting – which is clearly going to mitigate the concern.”
Councillor Prish Sharma added, “Pubs are closing – if a pub finds a way, in innovation, I believe we should make it possible and let it remain open. With due respect to the heritage we need to look after our pubs.”
Unanimous Approval with Conditions
When it came to a vote, councillors unanimously approved the application, subject to conditions. The meeting at the Civic Suite was held on February 11, marking the end of a lengthy planning dispute that underscores the balance between heritage preservation and supporting local businesses.
