Manor Hotel outdoor dining plans on the Beacon condemned as 'utterly ridiculous'

Plans for the green area on the Beacon to be used by the Manor Hotel have been unanimously rejected by East Devon District Councillors.

The green patch is close to the hotel, and it was thought that it could be used for outdoor dining.

The application suggested that 12 tables with 24 chairs could be set up, but councillor David Key said this would be "utterly ridiculous".

Councillor Olly Davey said: "This is tricky as we are keen to support local businesses and the Manor has no outdoor space, but we have to consider the impact on other people, and in this case, there will be a bit of impact on local residents."

Councillor Joe Whibley added: "We do need to promote business in these difficult times, but you cannot override all of the other considerations."

Concerns were expressed about the practicality of the scheme, and also for the safety of waiters crossing the road to get to the proposed area.