Dear Sir
It was interesting to read your article about The Beach Tavern. The last time the property came on the market, a friend and I discussed exactly your suggestion..a real community focal point, open to all, with an old fashioned tea shop which became a French style bistro and wine bar in the evening. It would incorporate a community space with performing area, and the walls would become an art gallery for local painters etc to display and sell their work.
There would be a free book-swap, including magazines – so expensive now that some can no longer afford them. A community notice board would be alongside a couple of computers for public use.
We felt that the profit from the tea shop and bistro would mainly fund the operation, along with various fundraising events, we even had a team of volunteers lined up to supply and staff the tea shop!
There is always a ‘BUT’, isn’t there? The property is in very poor condition structurally, and really needs much money spent on it. The accommodation (which could be rented out for extra income) is, frankly, a disgrace.
Also, although it may have changed now, the lease was a very short one, even though the price was high.
All of the above could be possible if a large grant could be obtained for the work, and if the freehold could be purchased to make the investment worthwhile.
Regards,
Diana Terry FRSA
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