Emma, 47, expressed her deep dismay, using words like ‘heartbroken’ and ‘flabbergasted’ after planning officials delivered the shocking news to vacate the premises immediately. The reason? Alleged ‘unacceptable harm’ caused to the living conditions of neighbors due to the presence of The Caddy Shack Cafe.
The cafe, ingeniously constructed from a converted metal shipping container, found its home at Weymouth and Portland Rugby Club in Dorset in April 2022. Emma, a mother of two, had relocated from another site in the seaside town. Initially assisted by the rugby club, acting as tenants on the land, Emma set up shop temporarily while pursuing planning permission to make the cafe a permanent fixture.
The cafe quickly became a cherished spot for various groups, including walkers, school children, and disabled individuals on mobility scooters. However, the tranquil ambiance was disrupted when three residents voiced their opposition in October 2022, citing ‘noise and odour’ as grounds for complaint. Allegations of anti-social behavior near the site, coupled with grievances about the ‘smell of bacon’ and the ‘clinking of teaspoons and teacups,’ fueled the controversy.
