Council serves warning notice on Salthill pub over outdoor seating

The owner of a well-known Salthill pub has asked the City Council for permission to retain a covered seating area beside the premises – after the local authority served a warning notice that it should be removed.
PJ Flaherty’s in Lower Salthill erected a timber pergola-type structure last year for customers to sit under while eating as a safe outdoor space, in response to Covid-19 guidelines and restrictions.
In April, the Council sent the pub a warning letter in relation to the “unauthorised development” at the side of the pub.
Owner James Flaherty has now sought planning permission to retain the seating area.
The application reads: “The seating arrangement is open place consisting of timber picnic benches. This area is also open to the front and along the side facing PJ’s. The design allows for constant air circulation and ample space for social distancing.
“The roof allows maximum natural light into the space while providing a refuge from the worst of the West of Ireland weather. The use of flowers, planting and traditional decoration creates a pleasant space for patrons while also enhancing the overall appearance from the street.
“The works carried out area essential to the commercial viability of the business. With the uncertainty surrounding ongoing Covid restrictions, the hospitality sector must come up with inventive measures to ensure survival.
“No encroachment or obstacle has been created on the public footpath. Most businesses in Salthill and areas of the city such as the Latin Quarter rely on outdoor dining to take place on public footpaths or closed roadways.
“Our clients are very concerned about the coming tourist season. Businesses such as PJ’s rely very heavily on the short summer tourist season.”
The application also notes that Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien has drafted regulations which will allow restaurants to have street furniture, awnings and coverings without planning permission.