Oxford’s Planning Commission approved the site plan for an outdoor dining space at Velvet Ditch Seafood – again.

Jared Foster recently opened the restaurant in the former Abner’s building. He has been ping-ponging through various commissions to get the restaurant approved. The Courthouse Square Historic Preservation Commission and the Oxford Planning Commission have approved various versions of the plan.

However, in October, residents living in the nearby neighborhoods filed an appeal to the Oxford Board of Aldermen. The Board sided with the residents and overturned the proposed site plan. Foster has since filed an appeal of the aldermen’s decision in the Lafayette County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, but moved forward with a revised site plan.

The approved plans will convert the current parking lot into a pedestrian-friendly outdoor area, featuring artificial turf, tables and seating.

The most significant change since the previous approval is to the overall site plan. The entire outdoor dining area is now set back 10’ from the property line on both sides.

The updated proposal was presented after Foster observed pedestrians frequently cutting across his parking lot near the bustling intersection of University Avenue and South Lamar Boulevard. 

To address previous concerns, the revised design includes improved pedestrian safety features such as 6-inch curb islands and decorative metal bollards.

Chains and a larger sidewalk will also be installed to guide foot traffic and prevent accidental entry into the street.

Along with the dining space, the plans include an expanded restroom area in the northeastern corner of the building, decorative metal shrouds for new AC units, and a 4-foot metal fence around the outdoor dining area. 

Foster has also proposed two bars for the site—one attached to the restroom addition and a smaller one opposite the storefront and a boil room. Those plans were not a part of Tuesday’s approval and will be submitted at a later time as a site plan amendment.