A pub in Torrance has been permitted to introduce outdoor drinking on a trial basis despite mixed professional and public opinion.

The Wheatsheaf Inn had requested East Dunbartonshire Licensing Board approve the change, along with some alterations to opening hours in line with local policy. It had initially sought permission to create outdoor areas in front of and to the rear of the premises but amended this to a single rear area.

This proposed rear area would feature six benches surrounded by a six foot timber fence. It would also be monitored by CCTV and not used after 8pm. It was intended as a family friendly area predominantly used for eating meals outdoors. There would be no music played in this area.

The Wheatsheaf’s representatives explained that the pub was currently run by Mark and Teresa Grey, who had been there for more than a year and valued their role in the community, as evidenced in their supporting fundraising efforts such as a recent campaign for a defibrillator.

They had submitted the application to the board based on demand from customers who wanted an external area, something which is important to many pubs.

The application had attracted some opposition, with members of the public and local licensing officer Claire Mather highlighting incidents of antisocial behaviour which took place in 2021, while the same area was licensed for outdoor drinking for just two weeks due to the lifting of COVID restrictions.  On one occasion a staff member and police officers were assaulted by a customer.

It was stressed that these issues predated the Greys taking over the pub which at the time was under a different tenant, and that the problems may have related to people’s behaviour after being released from isolation, and that it was unfair to expect a repeat of such problems.

In order to allay concerns, the applicants proposed the board allow the outdoor area to be operated on a trial basis beginning in April 2025 for around six months, after which the position would be reviewed.

Licensing officer Claire Mather objected to the plans on the basis that the proposals contravened the objective of preventing public nuisance and the suitability of the area in question for the sale of alcohol due to its proximity to housing and that it overlooked nearby properties.

The council’s environmental health team also expressed concern over potential noise related problems, due to proximity to residences and a belief the fencing would be inadequate in mitigating this.

The board also heard from members of the public, including neighbours who claimed hostile comments had been made on the Wheatsheaf’s social media after they had complained to authorities about noise and disturbances, although this could not be considered by the board as no evidence had been presented. Several objectors also stated noise levels were excessive.

One member of the public disagreed, stating that a thriving pub in the centre of the village was preferable to an empty building which would attract squatters.

Following further debate and a recess for deliberation, the board granted the application on a three month temporary basis for May to July 2025, and a planning application will also be required to approve the design of the outdoor area.