New bridge leads to more plans

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cpragnellthekmgroup.co.uk ment area on the Stour bank opposite the bar.

Their search for a head chef has resumed and they hope to have their kitchen running by the summer to serve locallysourced British cuisine.

Mr Allen, who designed the eye-catching interior of The Pound, also drew up the plans for the new iron footbridge.

He told the Gazette: “It’s been designed to echo the existing iron bridge which links the towers to the gaol building above street level.

“I’m really pleased with the outcome. The feedback we’ve had has been really positive. We’re now negotiating with the council over renting the space on the other side of the river for a seating area.

“It’s a suntrap throughout the day so it would be a wonderful spot to sit and relax in the warmer months.”

The new footbridge has cost £40,000 and is entirely funded by One Pound Lane Ltd, the partners’ firm.

Mr Allen drafted in Diva Architectural Metalwork in Faver-

What do you think? Email kentishgazette@thekmgroup. co.uk or write to Gazette House, 5-8 Boorman Way, Wraik Hill, Whitstable, CT5 3SE. sham to build the bridge, which features York stone paving.

“The important thing is that any seating outside would not inhibit the riverside path which is being completed,” said Mr Allen.

“The bridge will not be open at night and is therefore for the daytime customers only.

“Similarly, the outdoor seating would only be used during the day, to make the most of the sun.”

Mr Allen and Mr Caldon took on the site in 2014 and started an extensive internal overhaul.

Their three-year business plan includes the bar, a restaurant, the towers museum and busi- ness spaces on the first floor of the former music school on Pound Lane. Attempts to find a head chef failed last year and recruitment was abandoned over the Christmas period.

Mr Allen said: “We’re actively looking again now and it is our hope that we will have a restaurant running by the summer. It’s essential we get the right chef in, given the significance of the historic venue.

“It’s not easy finding the right person.”

The towers museum and rooftop viewing platform opened to the public in August last year after renovations to the towers by the city council.

A bridge has been built over the river giving a new entrance to The Pound; co-owner Stephen Allen on the bridge

Pictures: Ruth Cuerden FM4257724/FM4256481