We need public support for the permanent siting of the marquee and utility containers at the Junction Pub in Rainford, following refusal of the applications reference P/2022/0254/FUL and P/2022/0510/FUL by St Helens Borough Council

The Junction marquee and utility containers are sited on the leisure field at the rear of the Junction Pub in Rainford. This land is classified as greenbelt. The marquee is currently regularly used, free of charge, by local community groups including Brownies, Guides, Rainford Rangers, Rainford Ladies Athletic, Rainford Heritage Society and Rainford Band, Junction Ukulele Group. Events that currently use the marquee are Vintage Motorcycle Shows, Classic Car Shows, Bluegrass Festival, Summer Strum Ukulele Festival, Juncstock Music Festival, Manouche Jazz Festival, Oktoberfest, Artisan Markets, Beer Festivals, Dubbed Out VW Festival, Weddings, Christenings, Birthday Parties, Family Celebrations.

The marquee and utility containers have been used in these capacities for just short of a decade supporting the Junction Pub financially over the years. If the marquee was to be took down the Pub would not be financially viable and would cease trading.

If planning permission is not granted for the marquee and utility containers none of the above events and community uses would take place. The Junction function room is not suitable for any of the above events and uses.

We are planning to submit an appeal to the decision in one months time and this petition will be very helpful in the appeal process.