A plan to set up a travelling coffee enterprise along the riverbank in a West Sussex settlement has prompted mixed reactions from residents

The initiative, which has received a favourable assessment from Horsham District Council planning officers, would see the business operated from a refurbished horsebox situated on a raised deck behind Upper Beeding Pharmacy

The proposals also include a timber storage building and several al fresco seating areas for patrons, positioned in a meadow bordering the River Adur and a public footpath

The submission has divided opinion, with 16 nearby households raising objections, while 22 individuals have sent messages of support

One local resident opposed to the scheme remarked that the area around the pharmacy already experiences considerable parking difficulties and creates a visibility issue for drivers coming towards the bridge

Allowing customers to stop their cars to access this coffee outlet would increase congestion and raise environmental issues

Other protesters contended that the vehicle would be an unattractive addition and might harm existing catering businesses in the vicinity

By contrast, a proponent of the scheme remarked that it would boost the area’s attractiveness for recreational purposes and encourage increased use of the public footpath

A well-considered deck design would integrate nicely with the landscape and provide an appealing feature

Another supporter noted that the proposals would draw more walkers to the area, expressing full support for the venture and enthusiasm for its realisation

Council officers have raised no objections to the scheme, describing it as modest in scale, short-term in character, and unlikely to produce any adverse effects on the neighbourhood

Staff have recommended approval provided the business remains shut outside trading hours of 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 4pm on Sundays and bank holidays

The final decision on the submission will be taken by HDC’s planning committee on April 7