A pub popular with Norwich City fans is being forced to remove its marquee by the council over fears it ruins the historic building's features.

The Coach and Horses pub in Thorpe Road, which is Grade II listed and dates back to 1811, introduced the sheltered area during the Covid pandemic when restrictions were lifted during 2020 and pubs could reopen.

Manager Cameron Dallas, 26, said the business did not need to get permission from Norwich City Council to put up the marquee during that time.

Norwich Evening News: The marquee in front of the Coach and Horses pub in Thorpe Road, Norwich, in front of the balustrades. Image: Sophie WyllieThe marquee in front of the Coach and Horses pub in Thorpe Road, Norwich, in front of the balustrades. Image: Sophie Wyllie (Image: Sophie Wyllie)

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But towards the end of last year the authority contacted Mr Dallas ordering him to remove the structure by the end of this month because it blocked the balustrades on the first-floor balcony in front of the pub.

Officers complained it was not "in line with the aesthetic of the pub".

Mr Dallas has offered alternatives to the council but none of them have been accepted.

He said: "The marquee kept us alive during Ccovid. If it had not been here the pub wouldn't be in the good position it is in now."

Norwich Evening News: Cameron Dallas, manager of the Coach and Horses pub in Thorpe Road, Norwich, under the marquee in front of the pub. Image: Sophie WyllieCameron Dallas, manager of the Coach and Horses pub in Thorpe Road, Norwich, under the marquee in front of the pub. Image: Sophie Wyllie (Image: Newsquest)

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He added the rising prices affecting the freehold pub meant it was important to keep attracting customers and if the tent was not there fewer people would visit.

The current marquee can fit 22 tables which seat six to eight people and it proved popular during the Euros and World Cup football matches.

Norwich Evening News: Football fans enjoying a Euros match in 2021 under the Coach and Horses pub marque in Thorpe Road, Norwich. Image: NewsquestFootball fans enjoying a Euros match in 2021 under the Coach and Horses pub marque in Thorpe Road, Norwich. Image: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

Lesley Grahame and Ash Haynes, Thorpe Hamlet Green Party city councillors, said: "Businesses such as the coach and horses have had a difficult enough time without the council throwing further obstacles into their way.

"Although a more attractive permanent structure would improve the area, the council ought to give the pub more time to build one given the marquee has been an acceptable solution for so long."

The city council was approached for comment.