A Suffolk leisure and hospitality venue has been given permission for 'much needed improvements' to the premises, including an extension to the cafe and restaurant.

East Suffolk Council has approved plans submitted by High Lodge at Hinton for a range of upgrades to the Haw Wood facilities, including a new reception entrance to the cafe and reception and a new lobby entrance to the Champion Suite.

In a design and access statement submitted with the plans, the applicant's agent Ian Garrett said the changes to the cafe and restaurant would create 'more space for day-to-day customers' as the current floor space was 'too small and crowded' for the number of clients when the function room was unavailable.

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He said the extra space would provide a more flexible use of the building with facilities being used more effectively on quieter days, while increasing business bookings.

Meanwhile, the new lobby entrance will create a more suitable entrance and direct location for users of the Champion Suite.

Mr Garrett said: "The reception and lobby extensions will improve the viability of the business and improve the customer experience when arriving through a more directional approach
than is currently experienced, with each having level access provisions and door
openings suitable for wheelchair users."

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The venue also offers a function hall with wedding and corporate or conference facilities, as well as holiday lodges and a range of activities, including clay pigeon and air rifle shooting, archery and fishing.

"The proposed extensions would offer much needed improvements for the existing business along with the ability to provide a much-needed upgrade improving the main
entrance reception entrance, with a more welcoming layout for customers and lodge
guests, while assisting them in identifying or finding the entrance/reception which
currently struggle with due to the design layout for the building," Mr Garrett added.