Hopes to build ice cream parlour near Gloucester lake
A dilapidated listed building in Matson[1] is on the cards to be given a new lease of life and hopefully be repurposed into a building for the community[2]. Managers at The Redwell Centre, in collaboration with the Matson Anglers, are looking to create a space where people will be able to use the facilities and get something to eat[3] if plans go ahead.
The building which is called The Lodge is located in the picturesque grounds of the angling[4] lake on Matson Lane which is also home to the Matson Anglers. It is hoped the building will be transformed next year, however there is a lot of work to do.
The initial plans for the building include being made into an ice cream parlour in the summer, and during the winter people will be able to buy hot food such as jacket potatoes and soups. This is of course on the proviso the plans are given the go ahead.
The Redwell Centre Project Manager Vanessa Worrall, 64, said: “It has been on the cards for a number of years to transform the building into a community resource. It will mean The Redwell Centre is on one end with the greenspaces in between and the building by the lake on the other end.
“The building has been completely vandalised over the years and metal fences have been put up to keep people out, yet they keep getting pulled down. It is a listed building as well so there is a lot to do in making sure the renovations pass the requirements from the listed buildings inspector.”
“There have been plans for a long time for the building to be used as a community resource by Gloucester City Homes. We decided to ask the question about The Redwell Centre in collaboration with the Matson Anglers having the building to be used to benefit families and older people in and around Matson and also further afield.
“I am hoping the building will be used as an ice cream parlour in the summer. This is also good for families as they will be able to access events and activities which are held by The Redwell Centre.
“During the winter we shall be looking to sell hot food such as jacket potatoes and serve hot drinks as well. This is a really exciting opportunity to build something for the community.”
References
- ^ Matson (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ the community (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ something to eat (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ grounds of the angling (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ Gloucester pub’s new start with good food and DJs (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)