Plans for new coffee shop at Manningtree station

An application has been submitted to Tendring Council by Coffeelink, which is looking to open a new espresso bar.

However, dozens of members of the public have objected to the plans on safety grounds and because of the popularity of the existing Manningtree Station Buffet.

They claim a second coffee outlet would be unnecessary and that the proposed new site is too close to the platform edge.

Commenting on Tendring Council’s website, William Shearer said: “There is already a business that provides coffee and much more at Manningtree station.

“There is no commercial need for a second one. There are also safety issues with the proposed location for this kiosk, which would endanger the public. I strongly object to this application.”

Commuters at Manningtree station

Coffeelink has a number of units on the Greater Anglia network and has the support of the rail operator for its plans.

Coffeelink owner, Azzouz El-Mahraoui said: “We are based in Ipswich, we roast and source coffee from many places around the world, like Brazil, Kenya and Indonesia. We import coffee from these places and supply East of England Co-op, who we’ve been partnered with for more than ten years now.”

Mr El-Mahraoui added: “We would like to be a good, positive presence and compliment what is already at the station. We strongly believe that commuters will find our service highly satisfactory.

“I feel that we would be welcomed as a new addition to the retail offering at the station.”

A previous application to open a second cafe at the station was submitted in 2019 but later withdrawn early last year after a potential tenant pulled out.

When the previous application was made, Manningtree Station Buffet owner Paul Sankey hit out at the plans.

He said: “I’ve worked 20 years to build up a business and it doesn’t make me feel good. I certainly believe there’s no place for two businesses.”

Tendring Council will have the final say on the new plans.