Driven out by ever increasing costs

AFTER the end of this month there will be no Jerome and Chris serving meals at the Chandlery Restaurant at Sawley Marina.

It was nearly 14 years ago that the pair took over the Chandlery Restaurant, and in this time, notwithstanding three restaurants in the immediate vicinity, French cook Jerome has built up an enviable reputation for providing real 'home cooked' meals.

Costs risen

But alas, since British Waterway Marinas took over, Jerome tells us that the costs have risen out of all proportion, explaining:

"We personally don't want to leave, but we have had enough of paying, they are trying to find every penny they can, and are not listening to us or the boating people, with boaters leaving since 2011, so they don't come to us anymore.  They have absolutely killed the marina."

Sources locally

Asked about the restaurant's popularity, he told us that he makes a point of sourcing everything locally, with such as meat from Alvaston, vegetables from Long Eaton and fish from a supplier in Loughborough, and that everything is cooked to order—hot and fresh.

Quizzed about his costs, Jerome explained:

"During the early years we had a rent that included everything, so knew exactly where we stood, and though last time I shook hands on a gentleman's agreement, they started adding the costs of water, then the cost of rubbish, etc, and I finished paying an extra £3,000. The trouble is you cannot get this back, as they lock the gates at 6pm so there can be no evening trade, and I am losing money."

Failed in the past

Jerome told us that people had failed with the restaurant in the past, and doesn't see anyone making it pay with such high costs.

The restaurant is still open, with Jerome and Chris closing on the 24th March.  We have not been informed what will happen after this.