Oxfordshire historic pub beer garden revamp approved

The Red Lion at The Square, Eynsham, has received approval for “enhancement works” to ensure the “year-round usability of the pub garden”.

The plans are for a raised and covered pergola, a walkway pergola, decorative fencing, gates and raised planter beds.

The plans stated: “The proposed works represent a sensitive, reversible, and well-considered enhancement to the garden and operational environment of The Red Lion.

“The designs respect the character and significance of the listed building while providing practical improvements essential for its sustainable long-term use.”

The proposal was given the green light by West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC) with formal approval on Wednesday, May 27.

Commenting on the plans, Eynsham Parish Council stated: “The council continues to support this application and appreciated the landlords change of materials.”

The garden now (Image: WODC planning portal)

The garden now (Image: WODC planning portal)

Previously, it had shared concern about the “quality” of construction materials proposed.

It said: “The council supports the application and a popular local business, but wish to add comments that they would like to see higher quality materials used in the construction of the features including roofing.”

A West Oxfordshire District Council report stated that its officers believe the works will “preserve the character of the listed building”, “have a neutral impact on heritage significance, and have the benefit of improving the local economy and social sustainability”.