New London — The city’s Planning and Zoning Commission has granted approval for the construction of a small covered patio at the front of Bayou BBQ + Grill at 221 Shaw St.

Bayou BBQ owner Brian Brother had requested approval of the expansion as a way to accommodate more customers while meeting the social distancing requirements imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Brother had previously obtained a variance on setback requirements from the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Brother said the new patio, once constructed, would be able to accommodate five more tables.