Due to recent government legislation local pubs and clubs can not now allow smokers to ‘light up’ within their premises.  This is leading to people standing out in the open to smoke.
It not only results in a noticeable increase in cigarette ends on the floor but a desire for some clubs, where this is physically possible, to ask for Planning permission to install some form of smoking hood.
We have a case where this occurs within our Central Conservation Area and it may not be the last depending upon the outcome of the application.
Planners have recommended rejection and we, as a society, put in letter of objection.  When considered by the local planning committee it was not rejected but deferred for further discussion between the planners and the applicant.
My committee feels somewhat uncertain of our response and cannot deny a little sympathy for the applicant who has tried to make the canopy ‘fit in’ with the surrounding buildings.
Any (useful) comments?
Iain S Gerrard
Secretary

Outside smoking is an increasing issue in many towns and cities.  The problem is that it is not a licensable activity.  For example if a pub has a garden or outside seating area that is contained in their license and the licensee is responsible for making sure it is clean and tidy and people behave themselves.

Often this area can be covered by the Licensing department, try talking to them about it - perhaps a pavement cafe license would be a better way forward?