A BID to approve an already-built porch to the entrance of one of the best-known buildings in Ellesmere has been approved by Shropshire Council.

The proposal, by applicant Reza Noori, to confirm the porch at the Boathouse, next to the Mere in Ellesmere, was approved by planning officers on Monday, December 12.

The building, which is monitored by both Shropshire and Ellesmere Town Councils, has a café and restaurant area and is one of the most popular destinations in the area.

Shropshire Council planning officer Melanie Williams approved the plans, subject to conditions, because the porch is not expected to have any impact on the heritage of the building and area.

In her report, she said: “The proposed development is appropriate in its design and scale and it will not have a detrimental impact upon the character and appearance of the existing building or the surrounding area.

“Furthermore the proposal will not have an adverse impact upon the residential amenities of the neighbouring properties.”

The application, submitted on October 5 this year, was also subject to comments from Shropshire Council’s conservation team.

A report said: “The application seeks permission for an open timber porch, already constructed to the front of the building, with a tile-pitched roof.

“The proposal projects rather awkwardly from the main gabled entrance of the original building and interrupting the mock timber framing and herringbone brickwork, though the use of paint colour to match and matching tiles relieves the impact to some extent where the tiles will weather down over time.

“Furthermore, it is a small addition to the building that does not appear overly prominent within the streetscene given its small scale and matching materials/finish, where the tree screening at the front of the site also limits its overall impact.

“The impact on the wider character and appearance of the conservation area is therefore considered to be negligible, and not harmful in this case.”