12 hours ago
Future of 'unique' floating restaurant to be determined
COUNCILLORS were promised that they will not be seeing the introduction of a 'party boat' as plans for a floating restaurant in Christchurch were discussed.
Plans for a floating restaurant were discussed at Bournemouth Town Hall on June 17, in a licensing sub-committee meeting that was lead by councillor David Flagg.
Paul Trickett and wife Virginia Hazell-Trickett have applied for a premises licence to permit recorded music and the supply of alcohol for their floating venture, Christchurch Harbour Kitchen.
When asked to state his case, Mr Trickett described the restaurant as as a site that will serve alcohol to 'responsible' people and by no means will it be a 'party boat'.
He added that the idea is 'quite unique' and that he designed the structure himself.
Mrs Hazell-Trickett added: "We are trying to create something different."
Proposals for the seaborne venture have frustrated some members of the public, with many fearing that the venue will bring loud noise, anti-social behaviour and excess waste to the area.
In response to queries over the music, Mrs Hazell-Trickett stated that it "won't be louder than anyone that's speaking".
Another fear expressed by the public is surrounding the safety of the unit and if lifejackets are needed, especially for children.
Mr Trickett stated that the site is based on a 'static platform' and will not move while customers are on board.
He added that as the site is not moving, they do not see the need for lifejackets.
He said: "We do not feel as if there are going to be any hazards there."
Objecting the plans, Richard Slater from the Beach House in Mudeford spit, stated that the pair seemed to be 'unprepared' at the meeting, adding that the 'lack of experience' 'concerns' him.
Mr Slater said: "They don't appreciate that children can drown in a foot of a water.
"It would be a danger to the children playing in that area.
"Health and safety seems to be an afterthought."
Mr Trickett explained that he had designed two legs with 'diamond type arrow poles' which will sit under the raft and pierce the sand, holding its position.
Alongside the concerns for the safety of the general public, Mr Slater stated his concerns for the environmental impact the site may have.
He discussed that the site may damage and interfere with salmon spawning grounds in the area and was disappointed that no environmental impact or noise assessment surveys were completed.
BCP Councils decision will be made public later in the week.
