The Hanging Gate Inn, a 400-year-old pub in Higher Sutton, has submitted a planning application to Cheshire East Council seeking approval to add two glamping pods on a field adjacent to its car park. The owners, Hilary Spokes and James Schofield, say the addition would support the pub’s revenue and long-term sustainability.
In a social media post, the owners stated, “The revenue from the pods will help us complete building works and meet overheads so that we can offer food, employ staff, increase opening hours, etc. Without this income stream, we daren’t even think about the future viability of the pub. The pods will bring visitors to the area who will support other local businesses such as local cafés, pubs, and shops.”
According to the planning application, each pod would be constructed from dark, sustainable wood to blend with the surrounding landscape. Each unit would measure approximately 4 meters by 8 meters and include an en suite bathroom, a small kitchen, and sleeping arrangements for two adults.
The pods would operate year-round and be marketed as a “peaceful and relaxing well-being retreat for nature lovers.” The application also specifies that no party groups would be allowed on site to prevent potential anti-social behavior.
The application adds, “The proposed glamping pods provide a modest, sustainable, and well-designed addition to the local tourism offer. Demand for this type of accommodation is high throughout the country, which has also been shown to be true of other glamping sites within England.”
”The scheme will diversify the services of the Hanging Gate Inn, encourage longer visitor stays, and generate wider economic benefits for local shops, attractions, and businesses.”
According to Macclesfield Nub News, local residents have expressed support for the proposal. One neighbor said, “We think it’s a lovely way to bring more custom to the pub and to help keep it viable.”
Another added, “We are acutely aware of how challenging running the pub is, particularly making ends meet through the winter months. We have seen first-hand all the lengths Hilary and James go to in order to run the pub as cost-effectively as possible.”
”But rising operating costs, changing consumer habits, and the inherent seasonality of rural trade present a never-ending challenge. We fully appreciate that in order to survive such mounting pressures, they need to explore innovative ways for the business to remain viable. The proposed glamping pods represent a thoughtful and proportionate response to these challenges.”
Business owners in the outdoor hospitality and glamping sectors can note that diversifying services through on-site accommodation is increasingly used by rural pubs to stabilize revenue and extend visitor stays.
Year-round glamping offerings, particularly those marketed for wellness and nature experiences, can attract a broader audience while mitigating the seasonal fluctuations typical in rural hospitality.
The application is registered under reference number 26/0331/FUL and can be viewed on the Cheshire East Council planning website.