Quay Shop Fitters were approached by the new owner of Runhead News in 2010, he had recently bought the off licence and was looking to turn it into a fish and chip shop. The client already owns one fish and chip shop in the north east and was keen to expand his portfolio with the acquisition of Ryton Fish Bar. The shop is situated on a large housing estate close to other local amenities and therefore has to be able to cope with a large footfall during peak trade times.
The first aspect that had to be addressed was the planning permission for the 'change of use of the premises' which needed to be agreed prior to the commencement of any physical works. Quay Shop Fitters advised the client in this area, submitting the application to the local council and making any amends to the plans as and when they were recommended. We were very conscious of the lengthy timescales that can be involved in this process so ensured that the client was kept informed at all times and consulted over any potential changes to the layout of the shop that were required.
As the premises had formerly been operating as an off licence a great deal of groundwork was required to accomodate the alterations to the gas pipes to supply the frying range and also the water supply to the chipping and service areas. The existing ventilation system was also completely inadequate to cope with a frying range so needed a complete overhaul including works to the chimney and flue and the installation of a complex ducting system to satisfy the ventilation requirements of the new range. Our project manager liaised with the range supplier, KFE regarding the installation of the range and also the gas, electricity and water suppliers on behalf of the client to ensure that the supplies would be adequate for the shop's needs.
We needed to ensure the security of the premises during and after the works, at the owner's request we installed a new window and roller shutters to the front of the shop and a CCTV system with internal and external cameras.
The budget for the project was relatively tight due to the initial outlay for planning and groundworks therefore our designer's main objective was that the fit-out would be simplistic and functional. Stainless steel fixtures and fittings were strategically positioned to ensure that all equipment such as the frying range, kebab machine, pizza oven, bain maries, fridges, freezers and the till would be easily accessible ensuring that service could be as smooth as possible. The stainless steel fixtures and tiled walls and floors are easy to clean therefore ensuring that hygiene levels can be kept to a maximum even during busy periods.
While the fit-out was designed to be efficient and functional, Quay Shop Fitters also needed to ensure that customers would be attracted to the shop, this was achieved by offsetting the sleek, clean surroundings with striking signage to the exterior and interior of the shop displaying their menu and images of their products.
Ryton Fish Bar has recently opened for business and is now serving the local area with tasty take away food.