Bishopthorpe Road- Dark Horse plans approved in York

Plans to put up a pergola in the outdoor seating area of the Dark Horse Espresso Bar have been approved by City of York Council.

The business stated the plans would see it remain in keeping with the vibrant café culture of Bishopthorpe Road while also enhancing the area.

Council planning officers stated the changes would preserve the character and appearance of the street scene and there would be no additional impact on nearby households.

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The approved plans are set to see louvered pergola would be mounted on an outside wall and positioned above the outdoor seating area at the front of the building.

It would replace an existing umbrella which has struggled to stay up during strong winds while also providing shelter.

The pergola will be finished in dark grey metal to match the colour scheme of the outside of the building.

Plans stated the scale of the pergola was modest and it would not dominate the front of the building.

The existing outdoor area of the Dark Horse Espresso Bar (Image: Supplied)

The application stated: “Bishopthorpe Road is a well-established and
vibrant mixed-use high street, characterised by a variety of independent shops, cafés, and small commercial premises at ground floor level, with residential accommodation typically located above a few properties seen on the street.

“The street is widely recognised for its strong local identity and active frontage, contributing to a lively and well-used public realm.

“The proposal represents a modest and functional addition that supports the existing commercial use, enhances the quality of the outdoor seating provision, and responds appropriately to the character and activity of Bishopthorpe Road.

“The proposed pergola will provide shelter over the existing outdoor seating area, enhancing the usability and functionality of the space while respecting the active frontage and vibrant café culture of Bishopthorpe Road.”

Mark Edwards, originally from Australia, and his York-born wife Laura received planning permission to convert the former kitchen showroom at 147, Bishopthorpe Road into a café in 2023.

They have run the Dark Horse Espresso Bar in Shambles Market since 2018.