Two new outdoor drinking areas have been given the go-ahead in North Ayrshire.
The Riverside Lodge Hotel in Irvine was granted permission for an al-fresco alcohol zone on the terrace at the back of its restaurant.
North Ayrshire Council’s Licensing Board approved the new outdoor area, which would seat up to 80, earlier today.
Board convenor Councillor Ronnie McNicol said: “We welcome any refurbishment of these premises. We are looking for good accommodation for people coming to North Ayrshire.”
The Station Bar in Stevenston also plans to offer tipples in the sun after councillors approved an application for outdoor drinking.
The pub on Station Road aims to use a courtyard at the back of the building for the purpose.
The courtyard adjoins Canal Crescent and Murdoch Crescent according to a licensing board report.
Agent Niall Hassard said the pub had underwent a refurbishment and was closed for a number of weeks for work to be carried out.
Councillor McNicol pointed out: “The outdoor drinking area would be beside residential properties.”
Publican Andrew Gibson said signs would warn people to keep the noise down.
He said: “It will be properly run. Glasses will be lifted and noise will be kept to a minimum.”
He added: “Hopefully noise won’t travel. We don’t see it as an issue.”
Expanding on how the premises is managed, he said: “I don’t allow football tops in the pub.
“When the old firm games are on we tend to close early as I think it just brings trouble.”
The meeting heard how the pub also has CCTV.
Councillors approved the outdoor drinking area.
Councillor McNicol said if there are any objections the premises would have to appear in front of the board again.
