Third time lucky for Walnut Club's bid to extend hours
THE Walnut Club bar and restaurant is toasting success this week after finally winning an extension to its opening hours at the third attempt. Council planners gave the thumbs-up to the application on Monday, despite a recommendation from officers that it should be refused. The Ecclesall Road venue will now remain open until 12.30am for a trial period of six months.
Founder Richard Mills said: "I'm over the moon that the planning board saw fit to grant us the extra opening hours – it really could help us survive the economic downturn. We were finding that our clientele really wanted to relax after dinner, or not be ushered on to other late night rowdy venues. This extra hour will make all the difference."
The Michelin-rated club first applied to extend its opening hours, to 2am, a year ago, then moderated the application to 1.30am in August.
Both requests were turned down and officers were opposed to the latest submission, too – a stance backed by 24 letters of objection, including one from Hallam MP Nick Clegg.
But Mr Mills argued that, as a 'quality' first-floor venue, there would be no street-level noise. He also pointed out that a 24-hour supermarket is set to open in the premises below.
And he reassured local people that their feelings would be respected. "We do not plan to abuse this grace," he said. "We are making it a house rule not to permit anyone back into the venue after 11pm so residents don't see an influx of drinkers.
"This will really help us over the Christmas period. I think it's exactly what clients have wanted from us over the past two years; 12.30am is just right."
The Walnut Club is planning to celebrate its victory with a second birthday party next month.
Young singer Jessica Hobson is proving she can pack a punch in the fame stakes, just like her boxing promoter father, after winning a shot at stardom in a city talent contest.
Jess, 18, daughter of Dennis Hobson who promoted Ricky Hatton and Clinton Woods, beat five other finalists to win the Sheffield's Got Talent competition at the Walnut Club, Hathersage. Runners-up were Bethany Garnett and Ian Whitehead.
Her prize is an evening in the spotlights backed by local musician Ryan Taylor and a chance to earn a regular booking at the club. "It has always been my dream to be a professional singer but I've never had the confidence," says Jess, of Killamarsh, who is currently studying performing arts and working in a local restaurant.
"So to win a competition as big as this - and being crowned the best in Sheffield - is absolutely amazing. Now that I've won Sheffield's Got Talent, I'll be going for Britain's Got talent – so watch out for me!"
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Friday 25 May 2012
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