OWNERS of SOBO Beach, the popular pop-up bar and restaurant in Southbourne beach, are petitioning to stay on site at its current location until summer 2027.
Current plans in place mean SOBO Beach, known for its double decker bus bar and sitting area, will remain open throughout the winter until October 2023.
SOBO Beach owner Rich Slater wants to remain on site until September 2027 and has launched a petition named ‘SAVE THE FLAMINGO’.
Rich said: “We quite like it down here so we want to stay longer.
“Everybody has loved it. I’ve never opened a venue with such positive feedback. Everybody who comes here is local, as well. It’s not just a tourist trap like the pier.
“We’ve won over the local community, from young to old, and there are no issues with noises.”
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The council's plans have already been approved by its own planning committee to construct a new three-storey building featuring a restaurant and kiosk on the ground floor and 17 overnight lodges on the second floor at the site, formerly occupied by Bistro on the Beach.
Construction is set to begin on the new building in winter 2023.
Rich pointed out BCP Council announced it wants beach front operators to commit to trading for five years each – and hopes this applies to his business.
Read more: Southbourne beach to get a new 'Miami South Beach' restaurant
Since launching the petition last week, it has attracted more than 500 signatures, with many residents leaving positive messages of support.
This winter Rich has ideas to change his pop-up restaurant for the next few months, including having a glass shelter at the front of the bus called the ‘Bus Stop’ as well as stretched tents on either side of the bus.
Log burners will also be installed to give “a toasty feel. It will feel cozy and comfortable.”
The petition can be found at https://www.change.org/p/let-sobo-beach-stay-at-its-current-location-until-2027
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