SAVE the OUTDOOR SPACE at the TRAFALGAR TAVERN

The Trafalgar Tavern isn’t just a pub – it’s a vital part of Greenwich’s cultural, economic, and social fabric. Its outdoor seating area allows locals and visitors to enjoy one of London’s most iconic riverside views, boosting footfall and supporting a thriving hospitality sector. The enforcement notice threatens to remove that space without evidence of harm, despite no formal complaints, no safety issues, and no actual obstruction to cyclists or pedestrians.

The enforcement notice issued by the Council is not justified on planning grounds, and its removal would do serious harm to the local community, public enjoyment of the riverside, and the economic viability of a historic and much-loved venue.

If this enforcement succeeds, it sets a damaging precedent. It sends a message that popular, well-managed community spaces can be shut down due to vague, unsubstantiated claims, even when those spaces are celebrated by the public and add real value to the area.

The Trafalgar Tavern’s outdoor area occupies space that is already closed off to cyclists by design. The cycle route along this section of the Thames Path diverts inland before it reaches the Tavern, specifically to protect public safety and respect the Tavern’s longstanding riverside use. Cyclists are not permitted to ride through this section, meaning that the claim of “restricted access to cyclists” is factually incorrect and misleading.

Likewise, pedestrian access remains fully open. There is a clear, unobstructed walkway between the seating area and the river, allowing all members of the public to enjoy the waterfront. This is supported by the lack of formal complaints on record about obstruction in this area, despite many thousands of daily users.

The seating area is part of the character and charm of this riverside location. It features coordinated furniture in keeping with the heritage environment. The Council’s claim of “visual clutter” is highly subjective and not supported by any measurable impact on local views or enjoyment. On the contrary, public engagement shows overwhelming appreciation for the seating area’s vibrancy, views, and contribution to the area’s appeal.

The Trafalgar Tavern has hosted outdoor seating for years without any significant record of anti-social behaviour, complaints, or safety issues. The area is family-friendly, well-managed, and operates within its licensing terms. This is not an unregulated pop-up. It is a professionally run, responsible hospitality venue serving locals and tourists alike.

Removing the outdoor area will drastically reduce the venue’s operating capacity and threaten local jobs and revenue. This enforcement action could force the closure of a historic and iconic business, affecting not only staff but also local supply chains and tourism.

There is no evidence that emergency vehicle access or operational access is impeded by the outdoor seating. The space is not a highway thoroughfare and is managed carefully to ensure safe passage as needed.

We respectfully request that the Planning Inspectorate consider these facts and representations and uphold the appeal in full.

To support the Trafalgar Tavern:

Let’s protect community, heritage, and responsible hospitality.

SAVE OUR SEATS.

Because this isn’t just about one pub, it’s about protecting public access to vibrant, safe, and welcoming outdoor spaces. If planners start targeting successful venues like this without clear justification, other businesses and community hubs could be next.

Whether you’re a cyclist, a pedestrian, a resident, customer, or a visitor, this campaign is about:

We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fairness. No complaints. No evidence of harm. No reason to take this space away.

Let’s make sure a small group of objectors doesn’t speak louder than the thousands who enjoy and support this space every week. Join us. Speak up. Save our seats.