Plans submitted for rooftop beer garden behind Whitehaven Wetherspoons

The Bransty Arch in Whitehaven looks set to expand with an outdoor area behind the pub on the slope of Wellington Row.

In an application submitted to Copeland Council, JD Wetherspoon say it will create a “positive external area where customers can enjoy the weather”.

The plans say that a beer garden would “visually enhance the current site as it has fallen into disrepair”.

The site of the proposed rooftop beer garden on Wellington Row in Whitehaven (Image: Newsquest)

The application goes on to say that the presence of a new beer garden would “aid in animating the area” and “introducing a new lease of life” to the otherwise empty lot.

The development would also “draw further footfall through the high street” and “attract more visitors to the area”, Wetherspoons say.

It is proposed that the terrace would close at 11pm each day and would include a large canopy to provide screening to the residential properties opposite.

A noise survey submitted with the plans states that the predicted noise levels are sufficiently low to not cause a significant impact on the nearby residential community.

Graham Roberts, who represents Bransty on Cumbria County Council, said: “I think it’s the wrong place. I’ve never been sold on the idea.

“I think there could be noise. It could upset the neighbours – an open space with all that going on. It will have to be supervised very well.”

Danielle Lee, who co-owns Club 135 on Tangier Street with Mark Johnson, said: “We think that it’ll be good for the local nightlife. Hopefully it’ll bring extra trade to everyone.

“It’s just a shame it’s a multi-million pound corporation that will benefit, rather than a local business owner. We hope it won’t affect other beer gardens.”

Pam Dixon, who owns Lismore Guesthouse on Wellington Row, said: “It doesn’t bother me because I’m up the hill. It might affect houses further down.”  

READ MORE: Plans for new cocktail bar on Strand Street in Whitehaven