A POPULAR pub in Highfield is set for a revamp after its plans to create a new function room were approved.

The Brewhouse & Kitchen, on Highfield Lane, was granted permission to create an extension to the building, moving its smoking shelter and paved seating area at the back of the premises to facilitate the work.

The pub, which is renowned for having its own microbrewery on site, has designed the function room to have a multi-function purpose.

It will provide additional space during the busy spells but also act as a designated bookable function area for parties and special occasions.

Within the proposal, which was approved by Southampton City Council, developers Philips Surveyors LLP said: “The extension and alterations to the public house shall help to provide a better facility that is able to adapt to the pressure and expansion of the local area.

“It shall also allow the business to establish and grow, ensuring it remains a key part of the community.

“It has not been designed to maximise food ‘cover’ numbers, however the extension would allow these to increase by up to approximately 40 during busy periods.

“The proposal has been designed with the upmost respect to; the existing building, the surrounding environment and the adjacent neighbours.”

Brewhouse & Kitchen originally opened in the site, which was originally called The Goat, in 2016.

However, some residents voiced have their concerns over the plans due to the number of cars an extension may bring.

Ian Russell, of Roselands Gardens, said: “I object to any increase in capacity for this restaurant due to the increasing number of vehicles that would be used for transporting people to this site.

“The restaurant is in the middle of a built-up area with no near car parks, so vehicles would use the restaurant’s parking and roads around”

Barry Richards, from the same street, added: “We residents already suffer the inconvenience of our road being used as an overflow car park for the pub at peak times.

"The peak times being evenings and weekends when the residents’ parking restrictions do not apply. Even without these added cars, the road is congested with many of the properties having been converted to HMOs and many properties having more than one car.”