Pubs submit plans for roof terrace and extended hours

12:44pm Friday 2nd May 2008

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Twickenham night life could get a boost after two London Road drinking holes plan changes to their premises.

However, one resident is not so sure.

The Grand Union bar has applied to Richmond Council to build a roof terrace behind its premises, and the William Webb Ellis, a JD Wetherspoon pub, has submitted an application to extend opening hours from 12.30am to 1.30am on Thursdays and to 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Richard Staines, a journalist for the Nursing Times, whose two-year-old daughter Sara stays with him most weekends, has lodged a formal complaint with the council over the Grand Union extension.

He said: "I live with the noise at the moment, but these changes will have serious ramifications on my quality of life.

"I urge other residents to join me in opposing these plans."

But Ben Valet, general manager of the Grand Union, said: "This will be a fantastic thing for Twickenham night life.

"We're making the most of a great view that people will be able to enjoy in the summer.

"If anyone has a problem, I urge them to call. Since November 2006, I have had just two informal complaints about noise at closing time."

Steven Prior, director at Townends estate agents, in Heath Road, which lets homes behind the Grand Union said: "There are very few flats in the town centre, and only those in close proximity to the pubs will be affected by these changes. If anything, we would look at this as a positive thing for Twickenham, helping the town compete with Richmond for night life. "

A spokesman for JD Wetherspoon, said: "We operate the Webb Ellis to the highest of standards and fully respect our responsibility to people in the London Road area. Ultimately, however, it is the council's decision and we will be waiting on that."

Residents have until Friday, May 9, to register their views on both applications with the council.