Owner of Lytham restaurant Spagó so thankful to keep 'vital' extension
The owner of one of Lytham’s most successful restaurants has spoken of his gratitude and relief over being able to keep its ‘vital’ canopy and glass balustrade after a long planning fight.
Tony Vavoso, owner of Spagó restaurant, on Dicconson Terrace, applied for approval for a scheme to amend the glazed balustrade and canopy at the front of the premises, as the current structure was deemed unlawful and was the subject of a Planning Enforcement Notice.
Although his latest application to Fylde Council had been recommended for refusal by the planning officer over concerns it was detrimental to Lytham’s conservation area, councillors approved his proposals.
It was felt that if Mr Vavoso would have to take the structure down it could seriously undermine one of the town’s most long-standing and much loved eateries.
He told councillors that the extension allowed him to accommodate 40 extra customers, which was vital as the restaurant made its long recovery after the Covid lockdown.
He said the planning wrangle had been ongoing for 12 years.
After the decision, Mr Vavoso stated in a social media message on the restaurant’s Facebook page: “ I am incredibly grateful to the council for approving the decision regarding our canopy and for recognising both the practical and economic realities facing hospitality businesses today.
“Spagó has been part of Lytham for over a decade, and this approval gives us the confidence to focus on the future - on our staff, our customers, and continuing to invest in the business.
“We’ve always tried to give back to the community that supports us, and the decision allows us to move forward positively and sustainably.
“Thank you so much to everyone who has supported us along the way, and a special thank you to councillor Brenda Blackshaw and Kelly Farrington for the incredible support “