Renovation Plans for Lincoln Restaurant Rejected Again
The redevelopment plans for the Phoenix Cantonese restaurant on Lincoln's High Street have faced another setback after Councillors from the City of Lincoln Council rejected the proposal again. Matt Pang, the owner of the restaurant, had revised his plan to convert the establishment into a shop and nine apartments.
Parking Pressures and Neighbour Concerns
The Councillors expressed their concerns that the proposal would have a detrimental impact on those living nearby and would increase the existing pressures on parking on Henley Street. Mr Pang's first plan, involving a commercial unit and 10 residential apartments, was also rejected by the City of Lincoln Council in April 2023.
Backlash From Neighbours and Pub Patrons
The proposals were met with a substantial amount of opposition at the council meeting, including from representatives of the Golden Eagle pub, which is located next to the restaurant.
"This development will significantly limit natural light and thus heat entering the pub,” said Dean Bruce, representing the pub landlords.
Labour Councillor Neil Murray also sided with the pub's patrons and stated that he saw no valid reasons for the committee to change their previous decision.
"I can’t see any reason why the committee would go back on their decision," he said.
Conservative Councillor Eddie Strengiel recognized the city's urgent need for additional housing, but did not believe this specific proposal was the right solution.
"There isn’t much difference to the previous application. This is still the wrong application for this particular area," he commented.
The Final Vote
Despite some councillors voicing their support for the redevelopment, the final vote saw the proposal turned down. Of the councillors present, four opposed the redevelopment and three were in favour, leading to a second defeat for Matt Pang's plans. He had hoped to relocate his family business to a smaller city building and redevelop the existing one.
Business as Usual
Despite the setback, the Phoenix Cantonese restaurant continues to be open for business as usual.