The management team of a historic riverside pub in Greenwich, established 200 years ago, has successfully challenged a local council’s decision to eliminate the majority of its outdoor seating.

Greenwich Council had mandated the removal of tables lining the Thames Path at the Trafalgar Tavern, citing concerns over “visual clutter.”

Landlord Frank Dowling shared with BBC London that the appeals process was “expensive and demanding,” but expressed his excitement, stating, “We are overjoyed; our staff are delighted, and our patrons are happy too.”

While the Planning Inspectorate has overturned the council’s enforcement notice, Greenwich Council has indicated that the pub must still provide “detailed proposals” for its outdoor seating, which must receive approval.

A spokesperson for the council remarked, “This outcome is encouraging as it ensures there will be regulations in place to protect the path from excessive clutter, ensuring its safety for users.”

Mr. Dowling noted to the BBC that banning outdoor seating would have led to job losses for his staff. He added that during the appeals process, they were unable to invest in the outdoor space due to uncertainty regarding its future.

“We can now retain our staff and invest in our outdoor area to enhance it,” he explained.

“We aspire to build a positive relationship with the council moving forward — we wish to collaborate with them rather than oppose them,” he said.

Mr. Dowling emphasized, “We are merely caretakers of the Trafalgar; it has been part of this community for nearly 200 years. We take pride in our work here — we strive to create beautiful environments and provide exceptional experiences for thousands each year.”

The Planning Inspectorate’s decision confirmed that the area of the Thames Path known as “The Knuckle” can be designated for outdoor drinking and dining by customers of the Trafalgar Tavern.

This permission is contingent upon the pub submitting a management plan to the council within three months that outlines the intended use of this space while ensuring safety for all Thames Path users.

A representative from the Royal Borough of Greenwich stated, “We have consistently maintained that we must ensure the Thames Path is accessible to everyone. This narrow stretch is in constant use and needs to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and those with strollers.”

“We have always aimed to reach a sensible resolution that does not compromise accessibility nor set a precedent for a private entity to claim a part of public land in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.”

The inspector concluded that the pub could, in principle, utilize a small section of the path, provided it submits rigorous and thorough plans for approval.

The Tavern has a rich history, having served as a prominent gathering place for merchants, sailors, and politicians since its inception in 1837.