PLANNING chiefs will decide whether Stockton Heath restaurant Ego can construct a retractable roof tomorrow, Wednesday.

The development control committee has been recommended to approve the plans by the Mediterranean eaterie, on Walton Road.

It is asking for permission to construct an 'awning' with sliding glass which, if given, would cover the outdoor seating area currently in place.

There are four objections, including one from Stockton heath Parish Council, but the plans have been met with 147 letters of support, as well as a petition calling for plans to be passed.

The authority has served nearby Piccolino an enforcement notice in relation to the installation of a retractable roof and an appeal has since been lodged.

But a statement in the planning documents highlighted the 'significant differences' between the two matters.

It said: "That site lies within the London Road conservation area and has been installed on a locally listed building, which is not the case with this proposal.

"It is also located at first floor level giving it prominence. It is also of a different design and colour to what is proposed here.

"Overall, therefore, it is not considered that the installation at Piccolino's binds the council to any particular decision at Ego's now."