Cafe Owner Is Forced To Shut Down After Neighbors Complain About The Smell Of Bacon
In a surprising twist, Emma Ayles, the owner of a quaint cafe, has been compelled to shut down her business, resulting in eight individuals losing their jobs, following complaints from three neighbors regarding the cafe’s operations. The complaints primarily revolved around the aroma of bacon and the clatter of teacups, prompting planning authorities to act swiftly. Emma Ayles, a 47-year-old mother of two, conveyed her dismay at the abrupt closure of her business just prior to the holiday season.
The dispute arose after authorities determined that The Caddy Shack Cafe, a beloved establishment overseen by Emma, was causing “unacceptable inconvenience” to the quality of life for nearby residents. Emma had established the cafe in April 2022, transforming a metal shipping container into a cozy retreat, in collaboration with the Weymouth and Portland Rugby Club in Dorset. Initially, the rugby club had granted her permission to operate temporarily on their premises while she pursued permanent planning approval for the cafe.
The cafe swiftly became a beloved hub for the local community, drawing in pedestrians, schoolchildren, and individuals with mobility challenges who relied on scooters. It served as a central gathering spot for various groups, nurturing a strong sense of camaraderie and offering an inclusive environment for everyone.
However, this harmony was disrupted when three nearby residents voiced complaints about “noise and odors” emanating from the establishment in October 2022. These grievances led to Dorset Council denying Emma’s application for retrospective planning permission in February, with her subsequent appeal also met with rejection, leaving her without recourse.
Emma expressed her frustration, describing the situation as a constant uphill battle and stressing over the uncertainty surrounding the cafe’s future. She recounted having to deliver the distressing news of closure to eight staff members just before Christmas, many of whom were parents or students. The decision to close left everyone bewildered and disheartened.
The objections cited the “scent of bacon” and the clinking of “teaspoons and teacups” as sources of disturbance. Emma found these complaints to be absurd, noting that the prevailing wind typically carried any bacon aroma away from the complainants’ homes. She humorously quipped, “Should we switch to using chocolate teacups to eliminate noise?”
Emma also criticized the council’s ruling, expressing concern for the cafe’s patrons, including students from Wyvern School and individuals with disabilities who found the cafe accessible for their mobility scooters. She lamented the impact on the loyal customers, remarking, “I feel terrible for the community as they relied on the cafe for their daily gatherings.”
The appeal against the planning decision was lodged by Weymouth and Portland Rugby Club, expressing disappointment at the judgment’s repercussions for both players and the local community. Anthony Goss, the club’s chairman, highlighted the challenges faced by small businesses in the current economic climate and thanked the cafe’s steadfast patrons for their unwavering support.
The closure of the cafe has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many expressing disbelief at the complaints and subsequent action taken. Social media user Kati Eastwood sarcastically remarked on the objections regarding teacup noise and bacon scent, while Jon Fells praised the cafe and mourned its closure.
This contentious incident has raised pertinent questions about balancing support for local businesses with addressing residents’ concerns. The outcome remains uncertain, with the possibility of further actions being taken to rectify the situation or reconsider the decision to close The Caddy Shack Cafe.
