A NEW restaurant will be allowed to keep a controversial set of glass walls surrounding a popular monument.

Last week The Argus reported that residents were concerned with the look of the new glass structure.

But the barriers built around the Dolphin Fountain in Brighton Square will be allowed to stay, Brighton and Hove City Council confirmed.

A spokesman said: "We’ve advised the Coppa Club’s planning agent that the glass screening is permitted under national planning law as it’s on private land and not the public highway.

>> SEE ALSO: Anger as Coppa Club builds glass wall without planning permission

"We have also advised him that the parasols and seating should be removed prior to opening unless they are going to be taken in every night."

A spokeswoman for Coppa Club responded to the news.

The Argus:

She said: "We understand the heritage of Brighton Square and its importance to the local community.

"Our aim has always been to create a space which allows people to enjoy the privately-owned square in all weathers and we’re working with the council to produce a design that works for everyone.

"We previously submitted a planning scheme that had tremendous support from local businesses and locals, but this was unfortunately refused at planning committee.

>> SEE ALSO: Traders' concerns over new Coppa Club restaurant's glass wall

"We had hoped to have a final design in place in time for our opening.

But, given the protracted nature of the planning process, this sadly hasn’t been possible.

"We are working with the council on our revised design.

The Argus:

In the meantime, we wanted to make sure that once we open people could be sheltered from any bad weather when they visit the square, so we’ve installed an interim scheme that requires no planning permission, as confirmed by the council.

"The screens and doors are currently closed for security reasons pending our opening but once we launch next month the square will be open for people to access again all day, with the added bonus of cover during inclement weather.

"We will continue to work with the council, our local architect and advisors on our permanent scheme and hope to have that in place as soon as the planning process allows.

"We’re passionate about understanding and integrating into our local communities and are working with local suppliers, Brighton artists and building our team locally to create more job opportunities in the city.

"Our aim is to become a local destination for all Brighton and Hove residents and visitors, and an active part of this wonderful city."