A PUB near Newton Aycliffe wants to build an outdoor events space to boost its wedding offer.

The Hammer and Pincers Inn in Preston Lane, Preston Le Skerne, applied to Durham County Council for planning permission to extend its dining area with a single-storey orangery building. It also proposes a new ancillary building within its beer garden.

In recent years, pub owners have used the land for various licensed events and wedding parties with tipis erected during the summer.

A statement from Thornton Architectural states the plans would improve the outdoor area and provide “weatherproof backup” to support events.

It states: “The weather can impact on these events, if it is wet or windy then the ceremony needs to take place in the tipi which has dressed tables and set up for the reception after the wedding has taken place and is not an ideal setting for a ceremony to take place.

The Northern Echo:

EXTENSION PLAN: Owners of The Hammer and Pincers near Newton Aycliffe hope to extend and makes its wedding offer weather-proof

"The auxiliary building will provide that backstop should the weather not be supporting to an outside ceremony the bride and groom can essentially still be married outside but in the comfort of shelter for them and their guests.

"The main purpose of this building is to provide shelter from inclement weather, or offer shelter if it is too warm for guests who are attending outdoor weddings or other events.

“Essentially it provides additional area for people to socialise when using the outside facilities and allows the Hammer and Pincers to provide entertainment and events for locals in an increasingly difficult marketplace.”

Plans for the outbuilding include space for toilets, a bar and a kitchen / food preparation area.

According to the application, the proposals are expected to create one additional full-time job and two extra part-time jobs.

The public can comment on the plans until Thursday, January 3 next year and a decision is expected by Wednesday, February 6.

To view or comment on the plans visit publicaccess.durham.gov.uk/online-applications and search planning reference: DM/18/03664/FPA