Pirate ship at Surrey pub dismantled after complaints

A wooden pirate ship at the Dog and Duck pub in Surrey has been taken down after complaints from neighbors. Donna Hetherington and her husband Waine have run the pub for ten years. They added the pirate ship to the play area five years ago to create a fun spot for families. Tandridge District Council stepped in after a neighbor called the equipment an "eyesore." The council said the pub needs planning permission to keep it, which could cost up to £10,000. Mrs. Hetherington, a former police officer, expressed concern about the pub's future. She worries they might struggle to stay in business without the play area. The couple started a petition to challenge the decision, garnering over 1,000 signatures. Many locals praised the pub as a valuable place for families, especially during school holidays. However, activities like bouncy castles will be limited until the council decides what to do next. Hall & Woodhouse, the brewery that owns the pub, is helping with the planning process. They want to find a temporary solution that doesn't require permission. A planning consultant suggested that approval for the funfair is unlikely due to local regulations. The council officials stated that they have not yet received a planning application or request for advice. The pirate ship was already removed before this announcement.