Petersham Nurseries has prevailed after an epic 18-year battle with Richmond Council that threatened the future of its famous greenhouse restaurant.

“We’re very happy,” said a spokesperson for the restaurant.

“Petersham Nurseries is delighted to have won planning permission.  The Appeal recognised the significant positive benefits the business brings to the community. This news secures not only evening dining at Petersham but many jobs for our wonderful staff. We could not be happier and can’t wait to welcome our regular diners and new guests, safe in the knowledge we will be here for many years to come.“

Richmond Council had sought to impose restrictions on evening opening which the restaurant maintained would have undermined its viability as a business – and led to its staff losing their jobs. After years of alternating negotiation and standoff, the issue was resolved at a public enquiry, with a final report published by the government planning inspectorate on 12 July.

Petersham Nurseries won national acclaim in the early 2000s for the gastronomic achievements of its founding chef, Skye Gyngell, in shabby-chic surroundings. Its culinary reputation has dipped in the decade since her departure, but that has done nothing to dim the popularity of the converted greenhouses, described in the 2024 Harden’s guide as an “eccentric but wonderfully romantic setting for a meal“.

The restaurant has held a Green Michelin in recognition of its sustainable practices since 2021, and last year won Richmond Chamber of Commerce’s Best Business for Environmental Sustainability award.