PLANS for an outdoor seating area at a popular Chippy in Balloch have been given the green light.
The Blue Lagoon on Balloch Road has been granted a 12 month license to set up tables and chairs to meet the demands of customers who wish to eat out.
The request was lodged last Wednesday with the West Dunbartonshire Council’s Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development Committee.
Angelo Varese, owner of the business, explained that the public has indicated that they like being able to sit outside and enjoy their food.
He said: “They want to be in the fresh air when the weather is as good as it has been this summer.
“We had a trial this year for an outdoor seating area across the street that was not allowed to continue. We were very disappointed with this decision because we felt that the trial had gone well, that there had been few complaints and that the waste was being dealt with.
“Concerns have been expressed about people crossing the street safely, but luckily there have been no issues in this regard.
“After learning that we couldn’t extend this, we thought about using the sidewalk in front of our store. I really don’t see any reason why we can’t give people what they want.
“We will work with the board to resolve any issues that may arise and adjust things as we go.”
Stephen McGown, the representative of the Blue Lagoon, explained that it is a family business that has been in existence for over 50 years.
He said: “They operate various premises mainly in the west of Scotland, but they have stores as far north as Perth.
“The proposal is a relatively modest supply of four tables outside the store and my client would like to make it clear that this proposal is not something that is driven by profitability but to meet customer demand for some sort external supply.
“Outdoor space is very important for restaurants right now, which hopefully is a temporary situation. ”
After the discussion, the advisers accepted the proposals.
Comments are closed.