Popular takeaway coffee shop launches bid to open for an extra day a week
A takeaway coffee shop hailed as “bringing the community together” in Portchester by locals has launched a bid to extend its opening hours.
The owners of ‘84 by the shore’ have submitted a planning application to Fareham Borough Council seeking permission to be allowed to open Fridays on top of its currently allowed weekends.
As previously reported by The News, Adam and Emma Wells opened their converted garage which fronts Portsmouth harbour at 84, Merton Avenue in July 2021 under a temporary application by appeal during the pandemic lockdown. They received permission to open in perpetuity in June 2022 as long as there are no tables and chairs used at the site protecting the impact on the local resident’s amenity, said the planning and flood risk document.
The couple want to be able to serve hot drinks, cakes and icecream not only at weekends and bank holidays which they already have permission to do, but also on Fridays between 9 and 5pm. The application, received by the council on October 10 has 21 supportive public comments so far and the venue is used by joggers, walkers, dog walkers, cyclists, families and neighbours.
Comments said: “It brings the community together” and is “a perfect place to grab a coffee and enjoy the Portchester foreshore.”
Another comment said: “110 per cent support this, I think not only is the coffee shop a great asset to the area, they as a couple are a great asset. They support the community, super friendly. It gets people out and about. I for one will love to finish work and stroll there for a coffee and a chat.”
And a third comment said: “A fantastic small business that deserves to do well. It would be a great asset to open on a Friday.”
Another public comment in support said: “Much rather support this than a chain. A great addition to our community.”
And another said: “We love this little business and it’s a great stopping off point on a walk. Also the green opposite is a great space to meet up with family and enjoy a coffee so little ones can run around and explore the shore.”
The application reference P/24/1334/VC will be decided by Fareham Borough Council planning by December 5.