Bid for Bellota, in Churchgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, to open later approved by West Suffolk Council

A new town centre restaurant’s bid to open later has been given the green light.

LHK Venturs Ltd’s application to extend the licensed hours of 43-45 Churchgate Street, in Bury St Edmunds, to 11.30pm was approved by West Suffolk Council on Friday.

The venue, which was formerly Ben’s restaurant, will become Bellota.

The licensable activities are for alcohol sales off and on premises, Monday to Sunday 9am to 11pm and opening hours, Monday to Sunday 8am to 11.30pm.

One objection to the proposals was received from a Churchgate Street resident, who was concerned about potential noise disruption and said, as the building was listed, its windows could not be double glazed.

Planners noted that, while the building is in Bury’s Conservation area, it is not listed.

A delegated report said Bellota would be in the vicinity of several other pubs and restaurants which equally have similar closing times of 11pm and 11.30pm.

It said, given its town centre location, uses such as what has been proposed should be encouraged and the opening hours are not unreasonable.

Planners concluded by saying the hours were reasonable and will give the new business increased flexibility.

The application was approved subject to conditions on the plans being adhered to and the opening hours.

Bellota is aiming to be open by early spring.