Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Social distancing measures mean owners must weigh-up merits of opening again
Owners of pubs and restaurants across the district fear they may struggle to break even if allowed to reopen in two months.
As he detailed his roadmap for the loosening of lockdown, Boris Johnson revealed that “at least some of the hospitality industry” could be permitted to operate from July 4. However, he noted that premises must follow social distancing rules – prompting landlords and restaurateurs to question the merits of reopening. Canterbury pub magnate Charles Smythe says the likely rules will mean he can only welcome back regulars at two of his five city venues – The Dolphin and Old City Bar. “Three of my sites probably won’t open because they don’t have enough outside space and there’s no way we could do social distancing inside,” he explained.
“We have to keep staff and customers safe. If we can keep them safe, we’ll have to think whether it’s viable to open with 50% – or maybe less – trade. “When I say that, I mean just breaking even.” Mr Smythe is considering launching an app to order food and drinks from, along with a waitress service at his taverns, in an attempt to prevent customers from approaching the bar. Screens could be installed at counters, with patrons given time slots dictating when they will leave. Mr Smythe is also looking at creating separate entrances and exits. “There’s a lot to think about and a lot of costs involved,” he said.
“I don’t think smaller pubs or those without outside space will be able to be open because of the social distancing and it won’t be financially viable. “If you stay closed, you’ll only be paying a reduced amount of gas, electricity and water and fixed costs, but those won’t be anywhere near as much as when you’re open.” At Michelin-starred Seasalter gastropub The Sportsman, Phil Harris, who runs the restaurant with his brother, believes social distancing could result in his takings falling by about 40%.
He argues that part of this will be caused by an expected fall in overseas visitors, with food fans from countries like America and Belgium regularly travelling to Whitstable to sample its menu.
“I haven’t built up any debt. I still have reserves to carry us over,” he added. “I feel for people who have been in business for one or two years because some of them will struggle and we’ll lose a couple.
“The saddest thing about it is they won’t fail because they’re no good.” Bosses from The Ambrette, which has restaurants in Canterbury and Margate, are hoping the launch of a recipe and ingredient delivery service will help remain in the black when it does reopen.
Owner Dev Biswal says he will also develop a “dark kitchen” located on an industrial estate, from which he will provide deliveries of fresh gourmet meals inspired by several cuisines.