A publican struggling for survival has been told he must take down a smoking shelter for customers within 18 months.Kevin Greenacre, landlord of the Crown Inn at Gissing, said that trade is down around 20pc since the introduction of the smoking ban last year.

A publican struggling for survival has been told he must take down a smoking shelter for customers within 18 months.

Kevin Greenacre, landlord of the Crown Inn at Gissing, said that trade is down around 20pc since the introduction of the smoking ban last year.

In a bid to encourage more customers he spent about £1,200 putting up a heated marquee in the front car park.

But on Tuesday South Norfolk councillors agreed that the structure had to come down because it was detrimental to the listed building and the character of the conservation area.

They have given Mr Greenacre 18 months to make alternative arrangements before taking enforcement action.

Last night Mr Greeanacre said he was disappointed and would appeal the decision. He added: “The smoking ban has had a big impact. If I didn't have the smoking shelter it would probably be the end of the pub. I never thought I would need planning permission for something that is not permanently fixed to the ground.”