Alness pandemic marquee tent set to become regular fixture for Station Hotel in Easter Ross town
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A temporary marquee tent erected during the pandemic as a dining area beside an hotel in the centre of Alness has been granted permanent planning permission to allow outdoor dining.
Highland Council’s environmental health department was concerned that noise from Station Hotel patrons might impinge on nearby residential properties, but did not object.
One letter of representation raised concerns about possible noise, but this person was satisfied that the proposed use should not raise issues.
The environmental health report said: “The main source of noise from the marquee will be the patrons themselves. If the marquee is intended for use for both eating and drinking, then this is likely to increase the level of noise from patrons further as they may become more rowdy or boisterous.
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“It is essential, therefore, that there are adequate controls in place to reduce/control the noise from the marquee and methods are in place to address any boisterous or rowdy behaviour from patrons using the marquee.”
EH urged that approval must include a condition that a satisfactory noise management plan is submitted which sets out proposals to reduce the impact of noise arising from the marquee, and banning of amplified music, musical instruments or use of other sound producing devices should be prohibited within the marquee.
Planners approved a no music condition but stated: “...given music is not permitted the only other noise source would be the noise made by patrons – this is not readily quantifiable and is essentially a management issue for the owners of the hotel to ensure it remains within reasonable levels. As such the suggested condition is not considered to meet with the tests against which conditions much be considered by not being reasonable or enforceable.”
The marquee is a modern type similar to traditional tents in style, with sweeping peaks and is a light natural colour.
The planning decision stated: “It is considered that the proposed marquee is sited and designed in a sensitive manner that complements the existing building. A condition will be attached to the planning permission to ensure no loud music will be permitted, this is considered appropriate mitigation for any potential noise issues. Opening times are an issue for the licensing process.”
