The owners of The Oystercatcher, the large pub in the marina opposite Tesco, have submitted a planning application to the Vale of Glamorgan Council to revamp their existing beer garden.

In an effort to recover from the pandemic, they have proposed to build an outdoor bar out of a shipping container, add seating booths, and generally spruce up the space with lighting and a timber arbour.

However, they also intend to cut down some existing trees - an aspect of their planning proposal that has drawn the criticism of Vale of Glamorgan Councillor Neil Thomas.

"While I support hospitality industry attempts to adapt to the new normal to support their businesses, I would like to highlight some possible concerns.

"I am not in favour of the removal of trees generally. They serve a multitude of functions including providing a degree of shelter in the winter and shade in the summer helping cooling in hot weather.

"I would like to see some study of the possible impact of the proposed lighting on wildlife in the vicinity. Perhaps the ecologists need to be involved."

Cllr Thomas also expressed a widely felt concern felt among residents that too many people are flocking to the Marina, and that the improval of the beer garden may exacerbate this.

"The Oystercatcher is remote from residences generally, but I am aware that Marina residents are worried overall about the number of 'outsiders' coming to the area during the pandemic crisis and it is possible that people I represent may register a number of objections in the coming days."

Cllr Thomas did not express direct opposition to the proposal, but rather sought to highlight his concerns.

Various bodies - including Penarth Town Council and Contaminated Land, Air & Water Quality - will offer their consultation.

Full details can be viewed in the "documents" section of the planning application.