The existing ground level beergarden to the rear of the hotel was very rarely used. Access to the uncovered area was via the landing dock metal stairs and the furniture was old and faded. Overall not a very welcoming place to sit and enjoy a steak lunch and a cold drink. This was combined with the fact the existing dining area was fast running out of seats on busy nights as diners often had to wait for a table to be ready. A new beergarden at the same level as existing premises was long overdue.

The new smoking laws were due to come into effect later that year and the new management was thinking ahead and needed to construct a new Designated Outdoor Smoking Area (DOSA).