WE sometimes wonder whether our planners at Malvern Hills District Council want Great Malvern to join the 21st Century? Their objection to the new parasol outside the Pepper and Oz, in Abbey Road, is a case in point.

When new owners Pete Browne and his wife Lynne took over this highly regarded restaurant in March, they said they were going to introduce some of the atmosphere of European cafe society.

This is exactly what Malvern needs, and is part of what the new parasol helps to achieve.

We are inclined to agree with Mr Browne that the parasol enhances the area and is certainly a marked improvement on the old Edwardian-style awning that used to adorn the front of Pepper and Oz.

Malvern Civic Society and others were unhappy the parasol was put up without planning permission. While we agree that those who are responsible for listed buildings ought to take the greatest care about any changes they make to those buildings, we can't help but feel that sometimes the attitude of planners isn't very encouraging.

The planners are recommending the Browne's retrospective application be refused at next week's planning meeting. They say the parasol obscures the front of the listed building (which is true) and part of the Abbey Gateway (which is more debatable).

We would like to see the council give more encouragement to people who are trying to enhance the town centre.