A businessman has sparked controversy after building an unauthorised Indian gastro pub just 618ft from Anne Hathaway’s cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Rakesh Singh, 56, opened The Cask N Tandoor on the grounds of his four-star Burnside Hotel in the affluent village of Shottery, where houses average £500,000.
The establishment, built without proper planning permission in March, has drawn fierce criticism from the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and local residents.
Singh had initially received approval to replace a timber shed with two en-suite hotel bedrooms and a plant room.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon
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However, he doubled the size of the development by adding the gastro pub and a large outdoor wooden terrace for drinkers.
Last week, Stratford District Council rejected his retrospective planning application, stating the establishment failed to “enhance the character” of its historic neighbour.
The 114-square-metre gastro pub and decking may now face demolition orders.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust launched legal action against Singh, claiming the gastro pub “intrudes” on their land and has a “detrimental impact on the rural community.”
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Rakesh Singh opened The Cask N Tandoor (not pictured) on the grounds of his four-star Burnside Hotel
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Local residents say the development has destroyed wildlife in the Shottery brook.
“Mr Singh has shown a complete lack of respect and a brazen disregard of planning laws,” said one resident.
The council cited six major issues in its refusal letter, including concerns over biodiversity and flooding risks.
Planners highlighted problems with extra noise and lighting, as well as the impact on river wildlife.
They also noted “a failure to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Conservation Area and the setting of a Grade II-listed cottage next door”.
During summer months, residents reported football matches being broadcast, with sound carrying across the woodland.
The establishment has drawn fierce criticism from the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and local residents
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“This is simply not the appropriate place to have a loud sports bar and Indian restaurant,” another resident said.
Locals have called on the council to force Singh to demolish what they describe as a “gaudy monstrosity” as soon as possible.
A spokesman for the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust said: “The works have overdeveloped the site in contravention of local planning policy, the existing restrictive covenant and does not respect the amenity of the surrounding properties, including Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.”
Stansgate Planning, representing Singh, said: “We are currently reviewing the reasons for refusal and all the consultation comments with a view to either submitting another planning application or appealing against the decision.”
Stratford District Council declined to comment, saying the application remains “live.”