Planning officers have recommended approval of a retrospective application for a playground in Stafford set to be discussed at a borough council meeting next week.

Earlier this year, a proposal was submitted "for the retention of play equipment" at Hickory's Smokehouse on Kingsway.

According to the retrospective proposal, "The play equipment consists of a small climbing rig and children's slide with cover.

"The wooden equipment covers a small area to the side of the main building with a maximum height of 3.4m and total length of 8.2m."

Hickory's Smokehouse opened in Stafford in 2024 and serves a range of Southern-style cuisine including corn dogs, smoked wings and Texas style brisket.

Replacing a pre-existing play area, the application claims that the new equipment is "a more modern, safe and appropriate construction."

On Wednesday (21 October), planning committee members will consider whether to grant approval for the application.

The recommendation comes despite complaints made by some locals concerning noise, the design of the play area not being in keeping with the surrounding area and child safety concerns.

One person commented: "The play equipment generates regular and prolonged noise from unsupervised children, shouting and screaming whilst using the elevated and covered play equipment.

"My home is directly opposite the play equipment and on a typical busy afternoon/evening this can be particularly disturbing through our windows and even into our rear garden.

"I have witnessed children screaming, crying and generally being left to their own devices most weekends.

"The play equipment in its current location encourages children to use it without direct adult supervision.

"This raises concerns about safety, antisocial behaviour, and the general safeguarding of children using the facility."

Another objected to a red tower which is part of the play equipment and said: "Remove the red tower and don't permit the installation of anything that harms the character and visual amenity of the local area."

However, the play area does have a number of supporters.

One person said: "This play area is a great asset to the restaurant.

"This play area keeps smaller children entertained while waiting for food instead of sitting on phones or tablets."

Another commented: "This is an excellent, safe, small play area designed for young children."

A third said: "Just leave it alone - never seemed a problem before.

"You should be more concerned about the rancid smell from the kitchen."

In response to local people's concerns, the planning officer states: "Overall, in terms of noise, given the existing use, the nature and scale of the play equipment, officers do not consider that the proposal would cause unacceptable harm to living conditions.

"Neighbour responses have referred to safeguarding concerns regarding children being left unsupervised.

"This is not a planning matter and should be taken up with the restaurant manager/company directly.

"As the proposal is retrospective and considered acceptable, no conditions are recommended other than a condition to define the permission relating to the approved plans."

Click here to view the application.

Header image via Rod Grealish on Geograph.