Paris Wine Bar Canopy Faces New Hurdles in Hove Historic Area

A wine bar wants a retractable canopy to cover their courtyard. The bar, called Paris Wine Bar, is located on Church Road in Hove. They have already installed a fence and are now seeking approval for both the canopy and the fence.

The bar is situated in a historic area. It’s a Grade II listed building, surrounded by the Avenues Conservation Area. Nearby are other protected areas, including Cliftonville and Willett Estates.

City officials are suggesting denial of permission, citing potential harm to historic buildings. The planning team report describes the canopy as an “alien structure” that does not fit the rear yard.

The council has previously rejected extensions in 2012, 2013, 2019, and 2020. These refusals were based on the building’s age and the importance of its historical structure.

Elvis Kiri, the owner of the bar, received a notice in 2022 regarding a timber extension and canopy. He appealed the decision but lost and was required to remove it.

The initial canopy was removed, but the walls remained. A “tent-like” canopy is now present in the yard, and Kiri has submitted a new plan through his agent, Courtney Darby of Darby Architectural.

Kiri claims that past applications failed due to a lack of detail and errors. He believes this new presentation offers a different perspective.

He argues that the proposed structure is not a building extension but rather a garden with a canopy. The canopy’s ability to open and close helps manage weather conditions, and he asserts that previous applications misrepresented the project.

Kiri states that the structures are not attached and do not negatively affect the area. Eleven people have expressed their support for the canopy.

One supporter highlights that the roof reduces noise and allows for year-round use. They believe the council should support local businesses, which contribute to job creation in the community.

Another neighbor, who frequents Paris Wine Bar and considers it an asset, has noticed increased noise since the removal of the old roof. They support the new application, seeing it as an attempt to balance needs.

The Planning Committee is scheduled to vote next Wednesday at Hove Town Hall. The meeting will begin at 2 PM and can be viewed online.