15/06/2007
The Mediteranean comes to the S Hams
The Mediterranean comes to Blackpool Sands this summer with the opening of all weather dining facilities to complement the stunningly beautiful beach setting. Investment in a fully retractable Patiola used extensively for outside seating in Europe, means alfresco dining can be enjoyed in the open air, in part shade or fully under cover according to the weather at any time of the day or evening all year round.
The £200,000 capital investment by the Venus Company includes improvements to the food operations and to the design of the roof and exterior of the Venus Café so that it is more in keeping with the natural beach location. Green thinking and sustainability are at the heart of the new developments adding to Venus’ environmentally friendly credentials.
The new Patiola provides a more controlled environment with a timber and glazed windshield and canvas retractable roof. Temperature controlled ventilation in the food preparation area uses the natural elements of hot air and sea breezes through the building to keep operations cool day and night (passive ventilation). Solar roof panels heat the water system whilst energy efficient equipment, monitoring and menu planning ensure reduced CO2 emissions. The results are better food handling, a healthier and safer workplace for employees and a more attractive and ambient experience for customers.
Michael Smith, Venus managing director explains: “Blackpool Sands was recently described by Condé Nast Traveller “as the best beach for family fun”. We want visiting families and local people to be able to really enjoy this fantastic beach all year round. Now, no matter whatever the weather, you can come to this beach and dine alfresco style. Seasonality can be an issue for tourism. Our improvements will contribute to the sustainable development of the area as a whole.”
“From a business perspective, Venus can now cater for any type of function or party, offering the ultimate beach daytime or evening dining experience with an emphasis on Mediterranean style food and barbeques using local and organic produce and locally caught seafood.”
Francis Cornish, South West Tourism chairman who officially opened the new Venus Café facility commented: “There are some interesting trends in attitudes to tourism that play to the strengths of the Venus Company. Trend no 1. Global warming is now recognised as real. This makes beaches like Blackpool Sands even more alluring. Trend no 2. Some people are questioning whether they should be taking flights and so are more open to holidaying in Britain. Trend no 3 People are more concerned now about the practicalities of treating the environment with respect, e.g. energy conservation, recycling, biodegradable materials.
“People want more than before to eat healthily and enjoy good, natural, fresh, local food and drink. These are strong points for the South West and for Venus. We in the region have to deal with the trends or lose out. And we have to do so in ways that satisfies a wider demand. The whole experience has to be better and of higher quality.
“Venus is one of a small group of businesses that is leading the way, showing a combination of vision and hard work. We applaud them. The Venus Café is as good as it gets.”
The £200,000 capital investment by the Venus Company includes improvements to the food operations and to the design of the roof and exterior of the Venus Café so that it is more in keeping with the natural beach location. Green thinking and sustainability are at the heart of the new developments adding to Venus’ environmentally friendly credentials.
The new Patiola provides a more controlled environment with a timber and glazed windshield and canvas retractable roof. Temperature controlled ventilation in the food preparation area uses the natural elements of hot air and sea breezes through the building to keep operations cool day and night (passive ventilation). Solar roof panels heat the water system whilst energy efficient equipment, monitoring and menu planning ensure reduced CO2 emissions. The results are better food handling, a healthier and safer workplace for employees and a more attractive and ambient experience for customers.
Michael Smith, Venus managing director explains: “Blackpool Sands was recently described by Condé Nast Traveller “as the best beach for family fun”. We want visiting families and local people to be able to really enjoy this fantastic beach all year round. Now, no matter whatever the weather, you can come to this beach and dine alfresco style. Seasonality can be an issue for tourism. Our improvements will contribute to the sustainable development of the area as a whole.”
“From a business perspective, Venus can now cater for any type of function or party, offering the ultimate beach daytime or evening dining experience with an emphasis on Mediterranean style food and barbeques using local and organic produce and locally caught seafood.”
Francis Cornish, South West Tourism chairman who officially opened the new Venus Café facility commented: “There are some interesting trends in attitudes to tourism that play to the strengths of the Venus Company. Trend no 1. Global warming is now recognised as real. This makes beaches like Blackpool Sands even more alluring. Trend no 2. Some people are questioning whether they should be taking flights and so are more open to holidaying in Britain. Trend no 3 People are more concerned now about the practicalities of treating the environment with respect, e.g. energy conservation, recycling, biodegradable materials.
“People want more than before to eat healthily and enjoy good, natural, fresh, local food and drink. These are strong points for the South West and for Venus. We in the region have to deal with the trends or lose out. And we have to do so in ways that satisfies a wider demand. The whole experience has to be better and of higher quality.
“Venus is one of a small group of businesses that is leading the way, showing a combination of vision and hard work. We applaud them. The Venus Café is as good as it gets.”