The Mallard, a pub located at Tidbury Green Farm in Earlswood, has submitted an application to Solihull Council seeking to modify its alcohol licence to include an outdoor terrace area. The applicant aims to adjust the current permitted hours for serving alcohol from 10.30am–11pm to 9am–10pm daily, and additionally wishes to extend opening hours to 9am–11.30pm throughout the week, including New Year’s Eve.
Originally licensed in 2020, the 300-year-old Tidbury Green Farm established the pub following approval from the local authority. The latest application includes a proposed layout plan showing the new external terrace.
The application has sparked concern among local residents about potential noise and anti-social behaviour linked to the outdoor area. Four objections were initially submitted by neighbours and the Tidbury Green Parish Council, but three were withdrawn after discussions with the applicant. One remaining objection comes from local resident Keeley Fothergill, who lives about 500 yards from the pub.
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Ms Fothergill expresses worries over the cumulative effect of extended hours and the outdoor seating’s impact on nearby households. She highlights that some family members work shifts requiring rest during typical waking hours and that noise from conversations, raised voices, music, and other customer activities could carry into surrounding residential zones, especially during quieter evening periods.
The objection requests councillors clarify permitted hours for the outdoor terrace, the use of music or amplified sound, supervision plans, and measures to prevent nuisance. Additionally, concerns are raised about the site becoming a focal point for young people or others, potentially increasing risks of unauthorised access, anti-social behaviour, or alcohol-related disorder.
Council officers reported that no responsible authorities objected to the application. The Licensing Act panel will meet on 29 September at the Civic Suite from 4pm to consider the application and decide on the appropriate course of action.