The owners of a fish and chip shop destroyed in a major fire have been assured they can rebuild it.
Members of East Suffolk Council’s North Planning Committee have unanimously approved plans by Sole Bay Fish Company to restore its building at Blackshore Quay, Southwold.
The restaurant and the neighbouring Mrs T’s Fish and Chips caught fire in May last year after several gas cylinders exploded.
Visitors and residents welcomed the planning permission and said that businesses such as fish and chip shops in the port area needed to be reopened.
Twins Lisa and Tracy Connellan regularly visit the port area and were delighted to hear about the planning permission.
Lisa said: “We come from London every year with our parents and family and we always had fish and chips here. When the fire happened it was really sad. I think it would be nice for the area if the restaurant was rebuilt.”
Tracy said: “It’s about a sense of community and bringing people to the port. And there has to be reasons to come here. So anything that helps tourism here is really crucial.”
After plans for a temporary indoor dining area at Sole Bay Fish Company were approved by East Suffolk Council in November, a new plan was submitted in May “to fully restore the restaurant footprint”.
The planning statement said: “Although (the previous) planning permission had offered assistance for the takeaway and restaurant, it was decided that a more complete restoration of the building and business activity would be a more appropriate solution as it would result in less disruption to the business and surrounding area whilst creating a more suitable long-term outcome for all parties.”
“The planning permission is important to ensure the viable continuation of this very important business in the tourist resort of Southwold.”
The application was approved subject to certain conditions, including the requirement that construction begin within three years of the approval being granted.
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