It’s not too late to save the Fermain Beach Cafe
ONCE upon a time, 21 years ago, there was a run-down, semi-derelict shack, overlooking one of the most naturally beautiful bays on the pretty, unspoilt island of Guernsey in the Channel Islands. Hardly anyone ever went there, and visitors didn’t bother to navigate the steep, narrow, winding lane or walk the cliff path without any refreshments available en route. Fermain Bay was a beautiful but remote spot, largely deserted by locals and holidaymakers due to the lack of facilities.
Then one day along came a brave and enterprising young couple who fell in love with the location and believed they could make something out of the run-down shack if they worked diligently (sometimes day and night) to transform it into a picturesque beach cafe. Slowly an amazing transformation took place. Young and old came from far and wide to enjoy the beautiful views, swimming and picnicking in the bay, eating fresh crab sandwiches alfresco in the friendly seating area developed by the young couple (weather permitting) or sheltering in the cosy new interior when necessary. The States of Guernsey received a good rental income, the young couple made something from nothing and eventually enjoyed the fruits of their labour. And they all lived happily ever after. The end.
But sadly the story has a very different ending. After 21 years Manuela and Belmiro de Frietas have not even been offered the chance to renew their lease, and the States of Guernsey, in their infinite wisdom, have put the site out to tender with plans for a modern three-storey structure in the middle of the Bluebell Woods. Without the benefit of any parking whatsoever, and severely restricted access it’s difficult to imagine how (a) it will be physically possible to construct such a structure without major disruption to this beauty spot and altering the stunning landscape forever and (b) where the additional customers will come from to justify such a huge and speculative investment.
It’s not too late to save the Fermain Beach Cafe. States of Guernsey simply need to apply a modicum of common sense and take notice of the many islanders who are rightly incensed with the plans to destroy something which should actually become a blueprint for other island developments, and which has become one of Guernsey’s most popular tourist attractions achieving both national and international acclaim.
We can only hope that the States will listen to the islanders’ views and opinions and think again before pursuing their current direction of travel.
PETER AND ANDIE LEWIS
Sea Pines
Village de Putron