In a development that has stirred significant community interest, the Boat Inn in Chepstow has officially filed an appeal against the refusal of planning permission for a riverside marquee. The marquee, constructed from a metal frame and white clear sheeting, was erected on a paved area opposite the popular pub, adjacent to the flood defense wall along the banks of the River Wye. While it was intended to enhance the venue’s appeal, many local residents have expressed concerns that it obstructs access to the riverbank.
Amanda Cooper, the landlady of the Boat Inn, defended the marquee’s position, stating, “I have ensured that a clear path remains accessible to the steps built into the wall that lead to Chepstow Boat Club’s pontoon.” Her statement highlights her commitment to maintaining public access, despite the objections raised.
The marquee was initially installed in autumn 2020, following relaxed planning regulations aimed at supporting businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cooper submitted a request to Monmouthshire County Council in February 2023, seeking to make the structure a permanent fixture in the area known as The Back. The council, however, is responsible for the land and operates under conservation regulations, which complicated the situation.
Since the first application, which garnered over 200 comments from the community—both supportive and opposed—the council’s decision-making process has been contentious. After withdrawing her initial request, Cooper submitted a revised planning application, which was bolstered by an impressive 850-signature petition advocating for the marquee’s permanence. However, despite this show of community support, the council ultimately denied the application in November last year, citing 43 objections.
According to the council, the marquee was deemed out of place and represented a significant obstruction to individuals wishing to access the pontoon. “We have to consider the visual impact and public access when making such decisions,” a council representative remarked during the decision process.
Now, with Cooper’s appeal underway, the final determination will be made by an inspector from the Welsh planning body, Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW). The outcome of this appeal will not only impact the Boat Inn but also set a precedent for how similar applications are handled in the future.
As the community awaits the inspector’s decision, the debate over the marquee continues to reflect broader concerns regarding local business support, aesthetic values, and public accessibility along the scenic River Wye.
