Camden Council rejects outdoor tables for King's Cross pub

Joyce Whelan, who has managed The Lincoln Arms in King's Cross for 18 years, stated that Camden Council's rejection of her pavement licence application for six outdoor tables resulted in a loss of up to £40,000 in revenue during the summer months. The council confirmed the licence was refused due to pedestrian access and safety concerns, as the application sought permission for space outside a neighbouring property that included a fire exit.

Previous Use and Application Concerns

Ms Whelan stated that the six outdoor tables had been in place for years without issue before a complaint was lodged in June. She explained that the pub, located on the border between Camden and Islington, required a formal licence. After resubmitting her application to Camden Council, she was informed the tables could not be approved as they were situated in front of an adjacent property and posed risks to pedestrian movement and safety. The council noted that the proposed area included a fire exit for the neighbouring building.

Camden Council clarified that it had not refused permission for the pub to use the area directly outside its own premises. The application specifically requested permission for tables and chairs to be placed outside a neighbouring property, not the pub's immediate frontage. The council stated its commitment to supporting local businesses while ensuring public highway use is safe and accessible.

Impact on Business and Future Plans

Ms Whelan reported that the absence of outdoor seating during the hot summer months led to a significant drop in customers, with many patrons choosing establishments with external seating. She estimated the loss at approximately £4,000 weekly. While she had hoped to challenge the decision, she was informed that permission might only be granted for a single table. Consequently, The Lincoln Arms now plans to install a shelf to allow patrons to stand outside, rather than pursue further table licence applications.

Ms Whelan expressed concern about the pub's future trade, believing it will not reach previous levels without the outdoor seating. She described the situation as having a significant impact on the pub's finances and stated that customers were also upset by the ruling.