A popular pub on Mersea Island has shared its plans to house a seafood trailer permanently outside its venue.

The owners of The Victory, in Coast Road, West Mersea, submitted its proposals to Colchester Council’s planning department last month.

In his application, company director Steven Haslam said he was seeking permission for the use of a seafood trailer in front of the pub between April and September.

Mr Haslam wrote: “This will enhance trade which is vital to the viability of this business, with Covid and the current economic climate.

“We also believe it is a great addition as tourism to the island is key to all businesses on the island.”

The application has been submitted in retrospect, with seafood sales starting from the trailer in May this year.

Mr Haslam commented the addition to the business “has been well received during its trial”.

The Victory’s planning application was submitted just weeks after the owners of the nearby West Mersea Oyster Bar, which closed earlier this year, were granted permission to transform their former business into a takeaway outlet.

Gazette: Closed - West Mersea Oyster BarClosed - West Mersea Oyster Bar (Image: Visit Colchester)

The plans of the competing business gained the support of West Mersea Town Council.

The approval means fans of the former oyster bar, which is opposite The Victory, should soon be able to enjoy oysters, cold seafood, teas, coffees, wine, and soft drinks, which will be available to take away or eat at the seating area on the benches in the restaurant’s parking area.

Writing to the council regarding The Victory’s application, one objector said: “The street vendors are in competition with local businesses who pay rates, therefore the application should be refused.”

Another objector noted the design of the unit could “prejudice” the conservation area the pub sits within.

Further comments said the seafood trailer and its seating area are in the car park of The Victory which reduces the amount of parking available, especially as on-street parking is prohibited in Coast Road.

The business was also criticised for citing the Covid pandemic as one of the reasons the expansion given no lockdown restrictions are currently in place.