The owner of a new tea room is backing Lichfield to be the perfect venue for his new venture.
Alan Garwood has been given planning permission to convert the Grade II Listed building at 29 Tamworth Street into the Flamingo Tea Room.
But despite the city being hit by the closure of retailer TJ Hughes and the Thrales restaurant in recent weeks, he believes the city is the perfect place to launch his company.
“Compared to other places Lichfield retains a good proportion of local shops in the centre,” he told LichfieldLive. “And there is strong evidence that local people are committed to traditional high street shopping.
“We think that the Flamingo will be supported by customers who value choice.”
Mr Garwood also believes that an emphasis on the type of product offered will be crucial to the success of the venture.
He explained: “The tea room will seek to provide a distinctive and enjoyable service for local people.
“We will offer a wide range of delicious loose teas that will encourage customers to embark on adventures for the palate. Food will be wholesome and tasty – sandwiches, soups, baked potatoes and a plethora of cakes. All of the food will either be home made or locally sourced with an emphasis on quality.
“We hope that customers will also find the relatively spacious premises comfortable and relaxing.”
But as well as the traditional food and drink market, the Flamingo’s owner has his sights set on other targets too.
“Our second aim is to establish the shop as a community hub,” said Mr Garwood. “We are committed to using the premises to showcase and support community arts and culture. This may include hosting performances by local choirs, musicians from various genres, art exhibitions, reading groups and a programme of guest speakers.
“We have an adjoining room that will cater for meetings and less formal gatherings by appointment.”
The Flamingo Tea Room is hoping to open for business during November.
