Cheltenham's No. 131 says work to replace the white marquees covering its outdoor dining area with a permanent metal pergola could now begin in the summer, following delays caused by a number of factors.
The comments come as concerns are being raised that the marquees are still in place, more than a year after Julian Dunkerton's The Lucky Onion Group secured planning permission from Cheltenham Borough Council to replace them with a slim, metal pergola with a retractable roof.
Additional marquees have also been installed in its courtyard, albeit temporarily to accommodate racegoers for Cheltenham Festival, following years of controversy surrounding the restaurant's unauthorised retention of the tents, that were originally put up during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Cheltenham Civic Society chairman, Andrew Booton, told Carmelo Garcia, local democracy reporter: 'We recognise the importance of the hospitality sector to Cheltenham’s economy, but the continued presence of the tents at 131 The Promenade remains a clear matter of public interest.
'The tents were permitted only as a short-term measure and their retention – years after Covid restrictions ended – places private commercial benefit ahead of the appearance of the Conservation Area and its Grade II-listed buildings.
'More than a year ago, Lucky Onion was granted consent for a permanent replacement that was intended to provide a better outcome for customers, neighbours and the wider area. Lucky Onion should now proceed with removing the tents and completing that scheme, demonstrating its responsibility to the character, appearance and long-term wellbeing of the place on which its success ultimately depends.'
A spokesperson for the restaurant told the Local Democracy Reporting service that the intention remains to create a permanent structure, but that works have been delayed by planning and logistical considerations, meaning construction did not begin in January as originally anticipated.
'As with all hospitality establishments during this busy week, we need to accommodate the significant influx of visitors,' a spokesperson said.
'The additional tents allow us to provide appropriate cover in case of poor weather and to support the extra facilities required, including additional toilets.
'These tents are strictly temporary and will all be removed in the week following Cheltenham (Festival).
'With regard to the permanent structure, we have been waiting for final bids through the tender process and currently expect the build to begin in June.
'We remain committed to progressing the plans for the new structure and will continue to keep the relevant authorities informed as required.'
