Thousands sign petition to protect independent Eastbourne coffee shop’s ‘very existence’

Bella’s Cafe, in the railway station, and Cranborne Avenue resident Don Foster are calling for Costa Coffee not to add a branch into the railway station, saying the move would be ‘overwhelming’ for the small business.

Costa Coffee submitted the proposals to Eastbourne Borough Council’s planning committee recently, which outlines the possibility of moving into the old ticket office.

National coffee company may open cafe in Eastbourne station

The petition, set up by Mr Foster, has already, as of Thursday (July 23), gained 1,445 signatures out of a target 2,000.

Mr Foster said, “This move threatens the very existence of Bella’s, a cafe that has survived rail strikes, austerity, a covid-19 lockdown and is now faced with overwhelming opposition.

“Costa has already three coffee bars in Eastbourne and one of them is directly across the road from the station.

“If the move goes ahead, it will be seen as commercial predation and domination where a large corporation rides roughshod over a local business.

“We therefore ask you not to go ahead with the establishment of a coffee bar in the Eastbourne Railway Station.”

Lizzie Roach, manager at Bella’s, said she does not think Costa needs to move in, especially so close-by.

The 23-year old said, “It’s nice so many people have signed the petition. We appreciate the support of everyone.

“I don’t think Costa need to come here, there is already one outside the train station. I hope it won’t affect business.

“I love my job. The whole team loves the business and we just want it to succeed. We won’t be beaten even if Costa does come.”

Lizzie’s message to Costa was, “Just don’t go to the train station, go somewhere else. Leave the little shops alone.”

Costa has been approached for comment but has not yet responded.

To view the petition, visit https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-costa-coffe-from-hurting-bella-s

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