Weighbridge waffle shop owner wants a timber-clad enclosure

A planning application has been submitted by the business for the work.

‘In the winter there is no shelter, it doesn’t work,’ said Waffle & Co owner Natalia Silvester.

‘Initially we had permission for umbrellas, but they would blow off into the road, no one could predict the weather. So we started thinking about how we could protect the customers and keep them sheltered.’

She said the changes would make the area more welcoming and be more attractive to visitors hoping to dine closer to the sea.

‘The area is unutilised and it’s a shame. People are always talking about the importance of St Peter Port and the harbour – anywhere else in Europe we would dine close to the sea but here we have a dated system.’

She understood the importance of designing new spaces that fit with the surroundings, and said that the background and history of the site had been stringently analysed to ensure it was suitable.

‘We are testing the waters to see what works best. I want to give it some love. It is a beautiful place and I want to utilise it.’

Mrs Silvester also owns Crepe Maison and Love Shack, as well as The Catch before she sold it last year.

‘I look at my companies as one – if one is successful it means I can improve the other. People love Waffle & Co. I am aware there will be people with opinions who don’t like changes, but there is always a hater, they are not adventurous enough.’

The clock tower has been a listed structure since the 1970s.

Project architect Charlie Hodder said in the application letter that the structure does not touch the protected building of the weighbridge and the enclosure sits on the existing paving as the floor surface.

During the construction of the Victorian harbour in the 1860s, the weighbridge and a small wooden office building were built at the entrance of St Julian’s Emplacement in order to weigh and check the loads of materials, principally granite, being used in the construction work.

Following the completion of the harbour works, a more permanent structure replaced the wooden hut to serve as an office during the harbour works.

Grey and red granite were used and a clock tower was included.

It was extended in the 1920s as a new weighing machine was installed.

The new structure would increase the amount of food space from 30sq. m to 49sq. m and the plans shows it would have seating for about 18 people.

Mr Hodder said they had considered the design carefully.

‘The architectural expression of the building has been carefully considered to reference the pitched roof of the existing historic building whilst also providing a dynamic contrast,’ he said.

‘The building form responds to the site and surrounding public realm to bring vitality and activity to this key public thoroughfare.’

If the plans go ahead, the business would be able to operate from 7am until midnight.

‘The applicant, who will be operating the business, would like to allow for as flexible operating hours as possible, including some late night opening for special events,’ Mr Hodder said.

n The plans can be viewed at https://www.gov.gg/liveplanningapplications