Vestry's later hours finally approved

Plans for The Vestry in South Street to open until 2.30am were thwarted when a planning restriction was found that meant the bar could not open past 12am.

But in 2016 the business was given a licence to sell alcohol on site until 2.30am.

The application proposed a change of use from retail (Class A1) to food and drink (Class A3) with ancillary hotel bedroom accommodation at first floor and external works.

Nick Marshall, designated premises supervisor for The Vestry, said: “We are happy that it is finally all over

“It has taken a long time but now we are over the moon.

“One — It’s nice to be doing things properly and two — this means that we can get back to investing in the Vestry and building it to a bigger and better place.”

Nick also said the Vestry would be holding a party to celebrate the bar’s success with a party to celebrate in the new year.

Previous planning applications seeking to change the use of the building and expend the opening hours were withdrawn in the past.

The venue received a lot of support from members of the public who gave their support but drew some criticism from residents complaining about noise from the venue.

A noise impact statement in one of the applications found the noise levels at the site to be 'very low level'.

Twenty-year-old Dan Darcy-Jones from St James’ Road said he visits The Vestry with friends about once a week.

He said: “I think it’s a great place for the young community in Chichester — there aren’t that many other places to go.

“Students have got the student union which is the only other thing. I have met lots of people at The Vestry including students I wouldn’t have met.

"It’s a fun place to go to and it’s safe. I’ve never had a bad time there and they have always been nice to me and my friends.”

Here's our timeline of coverage:

• Vestry staff call for public support as they face pressure to close early March 7 2018

• Hundreds are signing a petition backing late-night drinks at The Vestry March 13 2018

• Council not enforcing early closing on The Vestry despite pressure April 25 2018

• Vestry bar working with Chichester council to fix opening hours issue July 12 2018

• The Vestry applies for extended hours Feb 7 2019

• 'Chichester's nightlife benefits from our opening hours' says Vestry February 13 2019

• Support pours in for extended hours at The Vestry March 5 2019

• Vestry 'completely ecstatic' at level of support for extended hours March 6 2019

• Decision on Vestry's hours is pushed back March 18 2019

• The Vestry withdraws extended hours application May 20 2019