Plans to turn a car park at a Warwick pub into a garden area are set to be discussed by councillors next week, with residents split on the scheme.

The Old Fourpenny Shop Hotel is looking to convert its off street car park at Crompton Street, saying there is ample parking in the local area.

In its application to Warwick District Council, the pub wrote: "The Old Fourpenny Shop Hotel has for some years entered into an agreement with Warwick Racecourse for the provision of comprehensive off-street parking not only for all its guests but also its Staff. 

"These alternative parking arrangements, together with the results of the attached parking survey, which indicate sufficient parking capacity in the vicinity, negate the need for these planning conditions. 

"Removal of these conditions will allow for the alternative development of that area as multi-functional garden space, enhancing the amenity of the Old Fourpenny Shop Hotel and the facilities available to locals and visitors alike, as well as ensuring its continued success and contribution to the local economy."

Punters currently have to drive through an old archway to reach the car park, which is described as "unsuitable" for modern vehicles.

The application continued: "Retaining the condition places unreasonable constraints on a valued local business that demonstrably supports tourism, hospitality, and regeneration in Warwick. 

"Therefore, its removal is not merely a concession but a reasonable, justified, and policy-compliant step towards ensuring the continued success and positive contribution of this historic establishment to the community."

However, the application has been met with a mixed response from locals.

Some 21 objections have been submitted, raising concerns around the impact on parking as well as noise and disruption.

Meanwhile 15 supportive comments have also been made, saying the local parking provision is sufficient and stating the importance of supporting local business.

Planners at the council have sided with the supporters, with a report recommending planning permission is granted.

"The proposal demonstrates that there is sufficient capacity locally for users of the site through the use of public car parks and the highways authority raise no objection to the proposals on highway safety grounds," the report explained.

Councillors will vote on the application at the WDC planning committee meeting on Wednesday 5 November.

See the full report here.