Councillors express concern over loss of pub pond

MEMBERS of Frodsham Town Council’s planning committee have expressed concerns over proposals to redevelop the beer garden at the rear of the Ring o’Bells pub.
The proposals put forward by brewery J.W. Lees include infilling an existing pond – and councillors expressed concerns regarding the loss of the pond and biodiversity.
A Grade 2 listed building, in Bellemonte Road, Frodsham believed to date from the 17th century, the Ring o’Bells has operated as a public house for centuries.
It has a large beer garden with tall drystone walls, mature trees and hedgerows – and the pond.
The applicants say no work will be carried out on the listed building and that the redevelopment of the beer garden – which will result in more seating – will have no real impact on the rear election of the white, pebble-dashed building.
The site is within a conservation area.
Frodsham councillors have recommended the proposals be referred to Cheshire West and Chester Council’s conservation officer because of the infilling of the pond.