Richmond pub gains approval to 'enhance' look
By Cesar Medina 6th Sep 2026
A pub in Richmond's proposals to revamp its site to "enhance the appearance and functionality" has been approved.
The Marlborough on Friars Stile Road submitted an application back in July to change the colour of the pub's exterior, as well as install two new huts in its garden area.
Put forward by Young & Co's Brewery, the pub said in its plans: "The proposals seek to enhance the visual appearance of the premises and improve the quality and usability of the existing external seating areas without altering the established use of the site."
Currently, The Marlborough's existing pub frontage is a dark grey colour, while the now approved scheme would see it transformed to purple-brown.
The application added: "The proposed refresh introduces a traditional heritage colour that will provide a quiet distinction to the public house and better reflect its individual character."
In addition, the plans seek to bring two open-sided, timber-framed canopy structures with hipped slate-effect roofs to the pub's garden to provide covered external seating areas.
"The canopies are intended solely to provide shelter over the existing external seating areas, improving comfort and extending the usability of these spaces throughout the year," continued The Marlborough.
"They do not increase the internal floorspace or alter the established use of the premises."
However, neighbour Matthew Newcomb, who lives directly opposite the pub's garden, argued against the proposed installation of the canopies due to his family being affected by a potential "increase in outdoor activity".
With their first-floor bedroom overlooking the proposed canopies, he explained that he is not against the pub itself or it making improvements, but that the plans are in a "sensitive" location.
The neighbour said: "A permanent covered structure immediately outside neighbouring homes will encourage customers to remain in the beer garden for longer periods and throughout the year.
"Whilst the application states there is no change of use, it does not assess the practical consequence of enabling significantly greater use of the external seating area during evenings and poor weather."
To read the plans in full, click here.
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