Hospitality businesses can permanently site tables on two grass areas by Felixstowe's seafront after councillors agreed unanimously to the idea.

The land adjacent to Bent Hill on Undercliff Road West first saw al fresco diners and drinkers under Covid restrictions.

Temporary one-year planning applications were granted in 2021 and 2022, while yesterday's decision by East Suffolk Council's planning committee extended this to full and permanent permission.

Cllr Mike Deacon, who represents Western Felixstowe, described the dining area as a "welcome addition" and "very popular".

Every councillor at the planning committee meeting voted for approval.

The two linear grass areas are separated by a public footway, which links the southern side of Undercliff Road West with the promenade and beach.

The adjacent cafes and bars include The Alex, One 29, The Cork and Steak Lobster & Co.

Felixstowe's residents submitted 42 comments of support and its town council followed suit by recommending approval.

Front near Bent Hill and Undercliff (Picture: Nub News)

Local Steve Johnson observed: "It has a great, relaxed continental café culture feel about it, which encourages people to use local hospitality businesses."

Virginia Idehen from nearby Trimley Saint Martin described the "buzz" it added, while Felixstowe resident Karen Anderson referred to a "happy and local ambience, which makes us all proud to be part of this amazing town".

Some supporters live on Undercliff Road West, but the only objection also came from a resident of this street.

Dawn Cordy said: "As a resident along Undercliff Road, I've witnessed an increase in noise due to late and rowdy drinkers on the grass opposite 129 and The Alex this summer.

"As lovely as it is to live by the sea, it does come with increasing noise, broken flower pots, damaged car wing mirrors, bottles and rubbish left in our gardens on busy weekends and holiday evenings."

The application is for the site to be used for dining and drinking between 9am and 11pm, with removal of tables and chairs expected outside these hours.