NEW owners of a quayside Italian restaurant want to ‘enhance’ the historic eatery with a new outside decking.

Plans have been lodged for La Lupa to add a new temporary outdoor decking in the car park, adding an additional 20 covers to the restaurant.

A planning statement submitted to the council by the applicants said: “The existing restaurant has been operational since 1978 as the first Italian restaurant in Poole.

“As new owners we would like to extend and enhance the existing restaurant to accommodate local community, visitors to the town and to increase employment in the area.”

As reported, the restaurant reopened in March, under new owners Cosmin Banu and business partner Nico.

The pair promised the restaurant would serve ‘the best traditional Italian food’.

Bournemouth Echo:

A design and access statement said the new decking would match neighbouring buildings, with light wooden decking used for the flooring and a metal balustrade surrounding it.

A large parasol would also be located in the centre of the decking.

The statement said: “The fixture will be installed in front of the restaurant, which will have direct access to the existing restaurant.

“The fixture will replace 2 parking spaces allocated to the restaurant, which have no effect on the residence. The fixture accessible for wheelchair users through the side entrance.”

The parking spaces the decking will replace are the two at the front of the car park, fronting onto The Quay and looking out over the water.

This, the statement said, would offer clients outdoor seating for fresh air and to enjoy the view on Poole Quay.

Bournemouth Echo: La Lupa and its car park. The new decking would replace the two spaces closest to the road.

It concluded: ”The proposed design and layout is considered to be appropriate in relation to the locality and seeks to respect the character and appearance of the area.

“The proposed materials are considered to be appropriate, and all in all, the scheme will be sympathetic to the aesthetic amenities of the surrounding area as well as neighbouring residents.

“As this proposal complies with the Development Plan and there are no material considerations which indicate that it should be determined otherwise, the proposals ought to be supported by Officers.”