Suffolk fish and chip shop destroyed in massive fire could see restaurant reinstated
Several gas cylinders exploded causing a big fire last year
A Suffolk fish and chip shop destroyed in a massive blaze could see its restaurant reinstated.
Members of East Suffolk’s planning committee are due to discuss the Sole Bay Fish Company’s bid to reinstate its restaurant in Blackshore Quay, Southwold later this week.
The restaurant was devoured by flames in May last year after several gas cylinders exploded, requiring firefighters from crews across the county to battle the blaze.
The fish monger’s operations and takeaway sales were reestablished earlier this year and the company applied to reinstate the entirety of the building to ensure the viability of the businesses and jobs.
The planning statement reads: “Although (previous) planning approval offered help with the takeaway and restaurant, it has been decided that a fuller re-establishment of the building and business activity would be a more suitable solution, creating less disruption to the business and the local area, along with establishing a more suitable long-term outcome for all parties.
“The planning approval is important in creating a viable continuation of this very important business in the tourist location of Southwold.”
No objections to the proposals were submitted but a representation from the owners of an adjacent hut which also burned down in the fire called for a condition requiring the building to be fully compliant with fire regulations.
The officer’s report states the scheme has been properly designed and detailed in planning terms and that it would be down to the building control team, the fire services, and the East Suffolk estates team to ensure the building is compliant with legislation.
The application will be discussed by councillors on Tuesday and is recommended for approval subject to conditions by officers.
If approved, the development would begin within three years of permission being granted.