Permission has been granted for a 'UK first' double tipi bar to be opened in the garden of a Gateshead pub.
On Wednesday the Malhotra Group, which owns popular Ryton pub The Runhead, was given the go-ahead by Gateshead Council's planning committee to construct the al fresco drinking area on its Holburn Lane grounds.
The double tipi initially had a trial run - pre-Covid - when the pub held its annual Runhead Festival in 2019 and it proved a hit with families.
And pub bosses hope that it will help customers stay warm and dry when lockdown eases on April 12, allowing pubs to serve drinks and food outdoors.
As previously reported, work has already started on the project, which will see decking laid down, with the tipi and container bar put on top.
The tent, approximately 22.3m long, will have enough space for up to 50 people.
A report to the council said that the 2.6m high wood clad shipping container would mainly be used for storage.
However, on rare occasions, such as weddings and other private events, it could be used to serve drinks, but this would be subject to licensing.
The scheme was granted temporary permission, which will last 12 months because it is "not considered suitable" for permanent permission.
And to cut down on noise, no form of amplified entertainment system will be allowed to be installed in the tipi. It also can't be used overnight between 10pm and 8am.
