One of Suffolk’s most iconic and popular eating places will soon be going up in the world – quite literally.
For plans have been submitted to raise the Felixstowe Ferry Cafe further off the ground to keep it safe from flooding.
The quirky cafe has been part of the low-lying fishing hamlet since 1946 and during that time has been surrounded by the tidal waters of the River Deben estuary on more than one occasion, including during the devastating 1953 floods tragedy.
The last time it was flooded and damaged was three years ago when high tides caused chaos, but last winter’s night-time tidal surge only just reached the edge of the car park after coming up the Ferry slipway.
Owner John Davis has now asked Suffolk Coastal council if he can take action to protect the cafe – by raising the whole building by 400mm so that the floor level will be 3.27m and keep it above expected flood levels.
The building – the current one replaced an earlier version in the late 1960s – would also be extended to create an additional dining area, extended kitchen and toilets.
Currently the cafe is themed to inspire 1950s nostalgia, mixing the look and feel of an American diner – complete with music from the rock ‘n’ roll era – with local fishing history.
Fresh fish and chips, all day breakfasts, burgers, jacket potatoes, sandwiches, salads and dressed crab, plus cakes, pastries and puddings and drinks make up the popular menu enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and visitors to the Deben..
Planning consultants Theobald and Co have submitted the plans and say the raising of the building will be done by hydraulic methods.
Documents submitted said: “The proposed accommodation will fulfil the applicant’s needs and by raising the whole building to the levels indicated, the secure accommodation urgently required will be provided for this very successful enterprise.”
Not everyone though is happy with the plan. Andrew Moore, managing director of Felixstowe Ferry Boatyard, is concerned that the raising in height and added extension will cause a loss of light to his company’s workshop and have a detrimental affect on the working environment.
Suffolk Coastal District Council officers are currently examining the plans and expect to issue a decision soon.
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