Plans approved for new beer garden behind popular historic South Shields riverside pub The Alum Ale House

A planning application was lodged with South Tyneside Council for The Alum Ale House off River Drive earlier this year.

This included a new split-level decked area to the rear of the pub, including timber balustrades, to create more outdoor space for customers.

The planning listing stated the new area would be accessed from the existing decked area to the side of the pub.

It comes as pubs and restaurants continue to improve and expand their outdoor areas, with al fresco drinking and dining remaining popular after customers took to the idea during covid.

People were encouraged to meet outdoors, where the risk of infection was much lower, and outdoor hospitality saw covid restrictions lift earlier than for indoor venues.

The Alum Ale House is one of the oldest and most popular drinking establishments in Shields, having seen centuries of change on the banks of the Tyne.

According to a design, access and heritage statement submitted to the council, the building has “served as a watering hole for locals since the 19th century.”

Due to the pub’s status as a Grade-II listed building, applicants stressed the new outdoor area would “respect the character and appearance” of the historic structure.

This included all works “avoiding harm to the significance of historic fabric and features.”

The design, access and heritage statement goes on to say: “The proposals will not alter the appearance of the Grade II-listed structure.

“The introduction of the extended decked area to match existing is concealed behind the existing building and given the topography and existing retaining wall, the proposed area will be screened off from public view.”

The proposed site plan shows space for around 12 tables with seating in the new outdoor area.

All works are expected to be confined within the curtilage of the site while works progress.

Following consultation on the application, the plans were approved by South Tyneside Council’s planning department on September 28 2021.

Under planning conditions, work has to commence on site within the next three years.

For more information on the plans and designs for the outdoor area, visit the council’s online planning portal and search reference: ST/0577/21/FUL

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