Defending my business could cost me £40,000 and the long-term damage could be devastating
A fund-raising campaign has been set up to help a Lytham restaurant fight a legal battle it fears could result in its closure if it loses.
The Spago restaurant in Dicconson Terrace has been issued with a legal challenge to the planning permission granted by Fylde Council for its outdoor canopy.
The challenge has come from local pressure group Lytham Voice, who cite the importance of protecting Lytham town centre, its listed buildings, conservation area and other assets.
Spago owner Tony Vavoso fears it will at least £40,000 ‘defending something which has already been properly approved’, adding: “The honest truth is that, if this situation continues, this could be our last summer at Spagó”.
Amid a wave of sympathy on social media, the Go Fund Me campaign has been set up by Mike Senior, with a target of £40,000. Mr Senior said: “Spagó is facing a ridiculous legal battle to keep their outdoor canopy open for business.
“A thriving business at the heart of our community, this is a massive kick for Tony and his team at a time hospitality is already struggling so much. Without the funds to fight this, the business could go under without that area.
“As a community and out of principle, let’s help Spagó fight this and keep their canopy open. It’s a tremendous business which hires locally, provides incredible service and brings much needed business to our local economy.
“Lytham has a wonderful heritage, but it is also the 21st century Please donate anything you can. If legal fees aren’t required, or we struggle to reach any significant funds raised, all donations will be refunded.”
As of Monday afternoon, the among donated was just short of £600. Mr Vavoso has expressed his gratitude for all the support for Spago. He said: “A huge, sincere thank you to all our wonderful customers and to the entire Lytham community for the incredible support you’ve shown me.
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“Defending my business against this challenge is likely to cost me £40,000 or even more, with the very real possibility that it could all be in vain - and if I am forced to remove the canopy, the financial impact and long-term damage to Spago would be devastating.”
Urging people to lobby the directors of Lytham Voice to think again, he added: “Spago cannot survive a long, expensive legal battle and neither should our community have to endure one.“