The new owner of a Spalding pub says he’s working with the district council in a bid to allow outdoor trading.
Jeremy Powell and the Red Lion have embraced a government push to create a ‘cafe culture’ by purchasing tables, chairs and coverings so that people can enjoy a drink in the town centre.
But because of where Spalding Market is set up, he is unable to put them out on market days (Tuesday and Saturday).
That’s particularly troublesome on a Saturday where Jeremy says takings are down by about a third.
However he’s working with the council on a solution.
“I’d like to put the tables and chairs out as I believe it could benefit the market to have and provide somewhere for visitors to it to sit down and enjoy a drink,” he said. “With the COVID-19 restrictions, most of my money is coming from people sitting outside.
“Currently on Saturday my revenue is down by about a third when it should be my busiest day.
“If a market stall moved a few metres I don’t think they would lose anything in revenue but the way it is at the moment we are losing revenue.
“We’ve started doing more food and put a lot of money into the reopening.”
Mr Powell said he has been in talks with South Holland District Council.
A spokesman for the authority said: “We are in discussions with not only Spalding businesses but market traders to improve the look and feel of the town on market days and we are currently reviewing the layout and plan of the market so everyone can be accommodated.
“We’re pleased to say that there’s been an increase in footfall on market days and we have a number of new traders keen to try Spalding market.
“We urge any businesses in the South Holland area looking to use outdoor areas for seating to apply online for a free pavement licence from Lincolnshire County Council.”
Jeremy said he’s been delighted with the welcome he’s received at the pub. “It’s been going really well”, he added.
“I’ve been very touched and very pleasantly surprised by the pride people have in the place.”
