We know how much Maple Restaurant means to many residents in Sanderstead as well as many living further afield. It is a popular independent restaurant and an important part of our local high street. Like many hospitality businesses, the owners have worked hard to build something attractive and welcoming for the community.
We have seen the petition and the social media posts about the outdoor terrace, and we understand why people feel strongly.
However, we also feel it is important to set out the facts clearly.
The raised decking terrace was constructed on public highway land in 2024 without the required planning permission or a Highways licence. The owner was advised at the time that formal consent was needed.
A retrospective planning application was submitted and was refused in April 2025. The refusal related to concerns including public safety on the footway, the impact of the structure, and issues connected to the extract ducting at the property. There was a right of appeal to the Planning Inspectorate within six months of that decision, but no appeal was submitted.
Since then, Council officers from both Planning and Highways have engaged with the owner to try to find a way forward. Additional time was granted beyond the original deadline to allow discussions to continue.
Because the terrace is fixed to the public footway, this is not simply a matter of aesthetics or popularity. Permanent structures cannot remain on highway land without proper consent. That is a legal and safety issue that applies to all businesses equally.
Council Officers have made clear that there are two potential routes forward:
- Removal of the existing permanent structure; or
- Removal and replacement with a genuinely temporary, fully moveable arrangement that meets licensing requirements.
We want Maple Restaurant to succeed. A thriving independent hospitality offer is important for Sanderstead. But we must also ensure that the rules around planning, highway safety and fairness to other businesses are upheld.
We remain hopeful that a compliant solution can be found quickly so that Maple Restaurant can continue to trade successfully and our high street can continue to thrive.
We hope that this update will be helpful.
Lynne, Yvette and Helen
Sanderstead Residents' Association 