Planning officials in Cheshire are poised to approve a controversial scheme that could secure the future of a historic local pub. A new convenience store is planned for part of the car park of The Royal Oak in Neston, with a key committee meeting scheduled to make the final decision.
Plan aims to provide 'continued certainty' for pub tenants
Cheshire West and Chester Council's planning committee meets on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, where it is recommended to approve the application. The proposal involves constructing a 348 square metre retail unit on the eastern section of the pub's existing car park, directly opposite Little Neston's village green.
The shop is designed to function as a small, local food store and is expected to create approximately 15 jobs. Crucially, the applicant argues that the development is essential for the pub's survival. A design statement submitted with the application claims the existing rent is "high and is proving to be both unaffordable and unsustainable."
The plan would allow an established retail development company to purchase the freehold. This investment would then enable a new lease for the pub with a significantly reduced rent. The statement said this offers "continued certainty" and would allow the tenants to not only continue trading but to invest in improvements, including a kitchen extension for a better menu.
Mixed reactions from the community and councillors
The application has not been without opposition. Neston Town Council has formally objected, and ward councillor Louise Gittins, who is also the leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, has expressed concerns about potential traffic impacts on nearby roads.
However, a council report notes that a "significant majority" of public representations were in support of the plan, and a petition backing the development was also received. To address parking worries, a 20-minute restriction will be imposed on the car park for general use, including shop customers. Pub patrons will be able to register their vehicle details on arrival for longer stays.
A landmark pub's potential new chapter
The Royal Oak on Town Lane was built in 1901 and is currently owned by Tavern Propco, a Jersey-registered company. The same tenants have operated the pub since September 1991. The council report recommending approval states the scheme would "utilise an existing car park to create an amenity facility in a logical and sustainable location."
It concludes that the development would make a positive contribution to the local economy and support sustainable travel, factors that ultimately weigh in its favour. The final decision will be made at the committee meeting at Ellesmere Port Library.
