Potential for three-storey development as Fermain cafe goes up for rent

But any redevelopment would have to retain a beach kiosk service.

The States-owned site is one of the most popular beach kiosks and is well-known for its crab sandwiches.

The property has gone up for rent through Watts Property Consultants, listed as a hospitality opportunity with development potential.

A States Property Unit spokesman said the current lease on the cafe comes to an end later this year.

‘We are inviting interested parties to come forward, and making clear that the site should continue to be used as a cafe or bistro, and that there is potential to expand the building to a limited extent, provided it is done in a way that is sympathetic to the historical and natural setting,’ he said.

‘The cafe plays an important role in the appeal of Fermain, one of our most beautiful and popular bays, and it is important that this continues to be the case in the future, and where possible we take the opportunity to further enhance the offering there.’

The estate agent’s details state the States had already sought pre-application advice for the development of a two or potentially three-storey structure.

‘Any plans for a third storey would be expected to be sympathetic to the historical setting and natural environment,’ the details state.

‘Any proposals would be expected to provide a new cafe or bistro in line with the special significance of the location, the character and amenity of the locality.’

The details also state that the States was keen to enable investment into the island’s beach kiosks and cafes.

‘As part of this exercise, Watts Property Consultants are retained by the States of Guernsey to invite expressions of interest from those wishing to take a lease of the site and develop it in a manner which will contribute to the enhancement of this area,’ it states.

‘In selecting the preferred bidder(s), the landlord will consider a wide variety of proposals, including those which will bring social, recreational, cultural, environmental, commercial and/or economic benefits to Fermain Bay. All manner of suggestions are therefore encouraged.’

The agents described the east coast site as having ‘excellent access by foot from the cliff paths’. There is parking for deliveries and those operating the cafe.

The current cafe dates back to just before the Second World War.

Belmiro de Freitas has been linked with the cafe since 2003, when he stated he was working on agreeing a 21-year lease on the site.

There was no one available at the cafe to comment yesterday, but it was confirmed it was open for the season.

The rental agents have not revealed how much the rent is.

Expressions of interest need to be submitted by 17 May.