PLANS to expand an Oxford pub are set to be approved, despite concerns over noise and increased congestion.

Proposals for a bigger bar area and extension at the back of The Prince of Wales in Church Way, Iffley, have been recommended for approval by a city council planning officer.

Pub landlord Steve Bant said: “It’s a major overhaul to bring the pub back to where it should be.

“We’ve been here for five months and have wanted to do this from day one. It’s in a lovely area and it needs an upgrade.”

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The landlord wants to build an extension to square up the L-shaped pub and fit new toilets, outside lighting and an outside deck as well as extending the pub garden.

In a report to councillors for Wednesday’s east area planning committee meeting, planning officer Andrew Murdoch endorsed the plans.

He said: “The proposed development would represent an efficient use of land that would improve the viability of the pub without giving rise to any unacceptable environmental problems or disturbance for the adjoining residential properties.”

Sue Reynolds, who lives opposite the pub, said: “It’s an integral part of the village. Everyone I’ve spoken to wants the pub to survive.

“It will impinge on the people who live next to the pub but as far as I’m concerned it makes sense.”

But in public comments on the application Jennifer Duggan, who lives near the pub, said: “The current beer garden already generates considerable nuisance from noise and cigarette fumes to the rear of my garden and master bedroom, therefore the proposed double doors leading onto the beer garden would expose me to increased noise from within the bars, especially if left open during warm weather.”

Mike Sinclair, chairman of Friends of Iffley Village, said they had no problem with the plans themselves but were concerned about increased traffic.

He said: “There are currently problems on Church Way. People drive too fast down it and there are often cars parked on both sides. It’s okay at the moment but it might make it worse.”

Mr Bant added: “We chatted with the planning officers last week and we are all happy with it.’’ Labour city councillor for Rose Hill and Iffley Ed Turner said: “The Prince of Wales is a lovely pub and everyone in Iffley wants it to thrive.

“I can understand concerns and councillors should discuss the issue at planning committee before making a decision.”

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