A village pub that reopened its doors earlier this year has secured approval to expand its operating arrangements following a council hearing.
The Fox Inn in Middle Barton began trading again in July after a prolonged closure lasting more than two years, having been saved through a grassroots effort by local residents.
The establishment has occupied the same site since 1809, while the property itself dates back to the early 1700s.
Earlier this year, businessman Tony O’Sullivan completed the purchase of the venue.
Significant renovation work was carried out before reopening, with the pub now serving both food and beverages.
The premises is also pet-friendly.
The current licensing conditions, however, prevented customers from placing orders or settling bills while seated in the outdoor area.
Those wishing to do so were required to enter the building.
At a West Oxfordshire District Council Licensing Panel convened on Tuesday, 22 September, Mr O’Sullivan submitted a request to amend these restrictions, seeking permission to conduct commercial transactions in the garden space.
One submission in opposition to the proposal was received by the authority.
A representative for the applicant stated that the requested modifications would simply enable orders and payments to be taken in the external seating area.
They continued that the objective was not to generate additional noise or disruption, but rather to manage the outdoor area more efficiently while providing increased supervision by staff in the garden.
The speaker noted that the interior of the establishment was modest in size, meaning capacity would become constrained once seasonal conditions deteriorated.
The committee granted the application without imposing any additional requirements.
Following the decision, Mr O’Sullivan expressed gratitude to the council.
A representative commented that considerable financial resources had been directed toward the renovation, the long-term viability of the structure, and the preservation of its historic character.