Seathorpe Espresso: Petition set-up in support of kiosk

Bosses at Seathorpe Espresso have submitted a new planning application in the hope they can get permission to keep running the business on land off Eastern Esplanade, Southend.

A previous application was rejected by Southend Council, which has since taken enforcement action and ordered the kiosk to stop trading.

With the outcome of the second application likely to provide a final decision on the business’ future, hundreds of people have signed an online petition to show their support for the kiosk.

A total of 844 have put their names on the document, which specifically requests planning permission is granted.

It adds: “The undersigned would like to express support for Seathorpe Espresso bar in their planning appeal and to express recognition of Seathorpe’s value to the local and surrounding communities.”

A target of 1,000 signatures has been set by the creators of the petition, which is on change.org.

Some Echo readers have also given their backing to Seathorpe Espresso on Facebook.

Samantha Cone said: “That’s a lovely place to stop for a coffee - what harm is being done? As long as it’s hygienic what’s the harm?”

Laura Smith said: “I actually can’t believe this, an honest bloke just trying to make a living.

“I love coming here with my dog for a coffee after a stroll.”

Nathan Strange added: “Nice guys, great coffee and no hassle to anyone. Let them stay.”

Ray Clark and his wife Beverley, who run the business, say they are trying to work with the council’s planning department to resolve the issues.

Changes made to the kiosk already include a one-way queuing system, enforced a no smoking rules, the installation of a privacy screen and reduced opening hours to 9am to 3pm.

“We are not that big of a business,” Mr Clark added.

"We’ve only once had a queue, and that was on New Year’s Day because of all the publicity in recent days.

“We are asking the council for a meeting to discuss these issues so we can work out the problems.”