The Windsor Tea Rooms in Penarth are facing a significant challenge as the Vale Council plans to remove their beloved parklets seating. These outdoor seating areas, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, have become a cherished part of the community, providing a unique and inviting space for customers. The decision to remove them has sparked outrage among local business owners and residents, who fear the impact on their businesses and the community’s charm.
Community Outrage Over Parklets Removal
The decision to remove the parklets has not been well received by the community. Many local business owners, including Jason Payter of Windsor Tea Rooms, have expressed their frustration and disappointment. Payter invested £2,500 in the parklets furniture and an additional £500 for the upkeep of the plants. He believes the parklets have been instrumental in attracting customers, especially those who prefer outdoor seating due to lingering COVID-19 concerns.
The removal of the parklets is seen as a step backward by many. Payter has already had to make one staff member redundant due to the anticipated loss of revenue. He estimates that the parklets generated a turnover of £60,000 between 2023 and 2024, including £20,000 worth of stock purchased from other local businesses. The loss of these seating areas could have a severe impact on the local economy.
Other business owners share Payter’s concerns. Sian Fox of Foxy’s Deli is also upset about the removal of her parklet. She believes it provides a valuable space for her customers to meet and socialize. The parklets have become a symbol of the community’s resilience and adaptability during challenging times.
Council’s Decision and Justification
The Vale Council’s decision to remove the parklets is based on several factors. Councillor Mark Wilson explained that the parklets were introduced as a temporary measure during the pandemic and were not intended to be permanent fixtures. The council has received mixed feedback from the community, with some residents raising concerns about noise, parking, and congestion.
Wilson stated that the council plans to repurpose the parklets for use in schools, where they can serve as shelters and alfresco dining spaces. The council aims to work with local businesses to coordinate the removal of the parklets, providing ample notice and exploring alternative outdoor trading options, such as obtaining pavement licenses.
Despite the council’s justification, many business owners remain unconvinced. Payter argues that the removal of just a few parking spaces will not significantly impact the availability of parking in the area. He believes the council should prioritize the health and well-being of the community by maintaining the parklets.
Impact on Local Businesses and Community
The removal of the parklets is expected to have a significant impact on local businesses and the community. For many business owners, the parklets have been a lifeline during the pandemic, helping them to attract customers and generate revenue. The loss of these seating areas could lead to a decline in foot traffic and sales.
The community has also grown attached to the parklets, which have become a unique and charming feature of Penarth. Residents enjoy the outdoor seating areas, which provide a pleasant space to relax and socialize. The removal of the parklets could diminish the town’s appeal and negatively affect the local economy.
Business owners like Payter and Fox are calling on the council to reconsider their decision. They believe the parklets have become an integral part of the community and should be preserved. The council’s decision to remove them has sparked a debate about the future of outdoor seating in Penarth and the importance of supporting local businesses.
