So is Costa Coffee going to open in the empty Cartridge world shop or not?
Costa Coffee
- 80 posts by
- Last post by Andrew Lewis at 7:43pm, Mar 27, 2012
Keywords:
- Headington
- shop
- costa
- coffee
- oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
The planning application by Costa Coffee for mixed A1/A3 use was refused: it
was the only possible decision, as it contravened the Local Plan.
There is a chance that Costa Coffee will go to appeal, but I can't see what
grounds they would have (except for coffee grounds, of course: I'll get that in
before someone else does).
The work going on inside the shop which included a big extension at the back
seems to have come to a halt: this was as a result of a planning application
put in by the landlord and approved last year. (Ironically Costa's additional
planning applications to alter the shop front and put up a sign were recently
approved, but that is not much use to them if they are not allowed to serve
coffee.)
Headington will get two new shops this week: the Lazy Gamer opens at any moment
in the former Annie Sloan shop, and Londis reopens under new management on
Friday. Without the Local Plan, there would be estate agents or coffee shops in
those premises by now.
was the only possible decision, as it contravened the Local Plan.
There is a chance that Costa Coffee will go to appeal, but I can't see what
grounds they would have (except for coffee grounds, of course: I'll get that in
before someone else does).
The work going on inside the shop which included a big extension at the back
seems to have come to a halt: this was as a result of a planning application
put in by the landlord and approved last year. (Ironically Costa's additional
planning applications to alter the shop front and put up a sign were recently
approved, but that is not much use to them if they are not allowed to serve
coffee.)
Headington will get two new shops this week: the Lazy Gamer opens at any moment
in the former Annie Sloan shop, and Londis reopens under new management on
Friday. Without the Local Plan, there would be estate agents or coffee shops in
those premises by now.
Nice one Stephanie - saw that coming!
The approved plans for Costa Coffee looked to me to include tables/chairs
along the pavement in Kennett Rd - where the bike stands are. If my
interpretation is correct how would they stack up (!) with the farmers
market.
Perhaps a good thing they didn't get A1/A3.
Harry Edwards
The approved plans for Costa Coffee looked to me to include tables/chairs
along the pavement in Kennett Rd - where the bike stands are. If my
interpretation is correct how would they stack up (!) with the farmers
market.
Perhaps a good thing they didn't get A1/A3.
Harry Edwards
Sorry, we're saying no to a well-run business like Costa which will invest in
making attractive improvements to an ugly shop, but we're CELEBRATING a
business called the Lazy Gamer which can't even seem to get a consistent logo
between the sign and the window sticker? I wonder if one of the betting shops
will take a wager on how long that business will last if it opens at all?
making attractive improvements to an ugly shop, but we're CELEBRATING a
business called the Lazy Gamer which can't even seem to get a consistent logo
between the sign and the window sticker? I wonder if one of the betting shops
will take a wager on how long that business will last if it opens at all?
Personally, I'd rather not have yet another chain coffee shop in Headington, we
already have Starbucks, Greggs to some degree and the independents like Jacob &
Field and QLCH. Had it been another independent requesting change of planning
status that would have been a different cup of tea/coffee.
In this day and age, anyone who has the courage to open their own business
needs to be supported, not belittled for failing to get a matching logo. That
is just being petty.
Good luck to Lazy Gamer I say!
already have Starbucks, Greggs to some degree and the independents like Jacob &
Field and QLCH. Had it been another independent requesting change of planning
status that would have been a different cup of tea/coffee.
In this day and age, anyone who has the courage to open their own business
needs to be supported, not belittled for failing to get a matching logo. That
is just being petty.
Good luck to Lazy Gamer I say!
The Local Plan policy is what it is but I can't see the objection to something
like Costa. It will bring people into the centre of Headington throughout the
day, and therefore probably benefit other traders. The nature of High Streets
is changing and this is what Mary Portas was talking about in her recent
review. Councils should be more flexible in planning terms to allow leisure
and other uses in to keep the place vibrant.
like Costa. It will bring people into the centre of Headington throughout the
day, and therefore probably benefit other traders. The nature of High Streets
is changing and this is what Mary Portas was talking about in her recent
review. Councils should be more flexible in planning terms to allow leisure
and other uses in to keep the place vibrant.
There are at least seven coffee type shops in Headington already, how would
Costa add to that 'vibrancy'. Seems more likely to put one of the existing
(independent) shops out of business. Can anyone explain why we already have so
many coffee shops?
I'd like to see a butchers, fishmongers or greengrocers. We lost those sort of
shops a few years ago so perhaps there's not enough business for them. However
I'd not have thought there was enough business for seven plus coffee shops
although either.
Fiona Mckenzie
Costa add to that 'vibrancy'. Seems more likely to put one of the existing
(independent) shops out of business. Can anyone explain why we already have so
many coffee shops?
I'd like to see a butchers, fishmongers or greengrocers. We lost those sort of
shops a few years ago so perhaps there's not enough business for them. However
I'd not have thought there was enough business for seven plus coffee shops
although either.
Fiona Mckenzie
Becca, I have tremendous respect for entrepreneurs, and I agree it's difficult
to be successful these days. As a resident I want Headington to be successful,
so absolutely I would love to see Lazy Gamer succeed, and maybe they've
identified a market which I didn't realize existed. Hopefully they are not as
lazy as they expect their clients to be.
My complaint really is that we are celebrating what my intuition tells me is a
potential failure, and at the same time actively discouraging people who have
proven, effective experience in enhancing a high street area.
At what point should we stop supporting/subsidizing successful businesses?
Should we stop when they have 4 shops? 10? 50? Is QL really an independent
when they seem to be buying up loads of sandwich shops all over town? If they
work out a successful formula (yes, I like that they have matching signage)
should we stop supporting them?
This is not a zero sum game. I don't believe that x number of people come in
to Headington regardless of the shops available. I believe that the overall
quality (and yes, I agree the overall mix of retail and other uses) of the
experience will affect the number of people who come in to Headington. For
example, when Waitrose opened, things got significantly busier in Headington,
and the new pavement scheme has made the area much more attractive as well.
I just think it's a shame that we are turning away a business that could
brighten up that corner near the bus stop at a time when we still have lots of
vacant store fronts.
Sorry for the tone of my previous post, but isn't that the general tone of this
forum?
to be successful these days. As a resident I want Headington to be successful,
so absolutely I would love to see Lazy Gamer succeed, and maybe they've
identified a market which I didn't realize existed. Hopefully they are not as
lazy as they expect their clients to be.
My complaint really is that we are celebrating what my intuition tells me is a
potential failure, and at the same time actively discouraging people who have
proven, effective experience in enhancing a high street area.
At what point should we stop supporting/subsidizing successful businesses?
Should we stop when they have 4 shops? 10? 50? Is QL really an independent
when they seem to be buying up loads of sandwich shops all over town? If they
work out a successful formula (yes, I like that they have matching signage)
should we stop supporting them?
This is not a zero sum game. I don't believe that x number of people come in
to Headington regardless of the shops available. I believe that the overall
quality (and yes, I agree the overall mix of retail and other uses) of the
experience will affect the number of people who come in to Headington. For
example, when Waitrose opened, things got significantly busier in Headington,
and the new pavement scheme has made the area much more attractive as well.
I just think it's a shame that we are turning away a business that could
brighten up that corner near the bus stop at a time when we still have lots of
vacant store fronts.
Sorry for the tone of my previous post, but isn't that the general tone of this
forum?
Whilst not a comic fan myself, I have been told that there are a lack
of comic selling shops in Oxford. So hopefully Lazy Gamer have
identified a useful gap in the market by also selling comics. Which
could bring trade to Headington that may stop to use one of our many
coffee shops whilst visiting. From my limited experience of going into
comic shops they seem to develop social hubs around them, which is
more than can be said for a chain coffee shop. Plus I'll take an
independent retailer over a chain any day, who wants all the high
streets in Britain to look the same!
Regards
Dom Francis.
On Tue, Feb 21, 2012 at 2:45 PM, Roger Lai <<email obscured>> wrote:
> Becca, I have tremendous respect for entrepreneurs, and I agree it's
difficult to be successful these days. As a resident I want Headington to be
successful, so absolutely I would love to see Lazy Gamer succeed, and maybe
they've identified a market which I didn't realize existed. Hopefully they are
not as lazy as they expect their clients to be.
>
> My complaint really is that we are celebrating what my intuition tells me is
a potential failure, and at the same time actively discouraging people who have
proven, effective experience in enhancing a high street area.
>
> At what point should we stop supporting/subsidizing successful businesses?
Should we stop when they have 4 shops? 10? 50? Is QL really an independent
when they seem to be buying up loads of sandwich shops all over town? If they
work out a successful formula (yes, I like that they have matching signage)
should we stop supporting them?
>
> This is not a zero sum game. I don't believe that x number of people come in
to Headington regardless of the shops available. I believe that the overall
quality (and yes, I agree the overall mix of retail and other uses) of the
experience will affect the number of people who come in to Headington. For
example, when Waitrose opened, things got significantly busier in Headington,
and the new pavement scheme has made the area much more attractive as well.
>
> I just think it's a shame that we are turning away a business that could
brighten up that corner near the bus stop at a time when we still have lots of
vacant store fronts.
>
> Sorry for the tone of my previous post, but isn't that the general tone of
this forum?
> Roger Lai
> [u'Headington', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Roger Lai: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/52nRKYEIlvi0tphuLWSznf
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/3vJ5HaMkVhL6a1cRuk05M9
>
> BIG NEWS: New $625,000 grant supports inclusive online outreach:
http://e-democracy.org/inclusion
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
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of comic selling shops in Oxford. So hopefully Lazy Gamer have
identified a useful gap in the market by also selling comics. Which
could bring trade to Headington that may stop to use one of our many
coffee shops whilst visiting. From my limited experience of going into
comic shops they seem to develop social hubs around them, which is
more than can be said for a chain coffee shop. Plus I'll take an
independent retailer over a chain any day, who wants all the high
streets in Britain to look the same!
Regards
Dom Francis.
On Tue, Feb 21, 2012 at 2:45 PM, Roger Lai <<email obscured>> wrote:
> Becca, I have tremendous respect for entrepreneurs, and I agree it's
difficult to be successful these days. As a resident I want Headington to be
successful, so absolutely I would love to see Lazy Gamer succeed, and maybe
they've identified a market which I didn't realize existed. Hopefully they are
not as lazy as they expect their clients to be.
>
> My complaint really is that we are celebrating what my intuition tells me is
a potential failure, and at the same time actively discouraging people who have
proven, effective experience in enhancing a high street area.
>
> At what point should we stop supporting/subsidizing successful businesses?
Should we stop when they have 4 shops? 10? 50? Is QL really an independent
when they seem to be buying up loads of sandwich shops all over town? If they
work out a successful formula (yes, I like that they have matching signage)
should we stop supporting them?
>
> This is not a zero sum game. I don't believe that x number of people come in
to Headington regardless of the shops available. I believe that the overall
quality (and yes, I agree the overall mix of retail and other uses) of the
experience will affect the number of people who come in to Headington. For
example, when Waitrose opened, things got significantly busier in Headington,
and the new pavement scheme has made the area much more attractive as well.
>
> I just think it's a shame that we are turning away a business that could
brighten up that corner near the bus stop at a time when we still have lots of
vacant store fronts.
>
> Sorry for the tone of my previous post, but isn't that the general tone of
this forum?
> Roger Lai
> [u'Headington', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Roger Lai: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/52nRKYEIlvi0tphuLWSznf
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/3vJ5HaMkVhL6a1cRuk05M9
>
> BIG NEWS: New $625,000 grant supports inclusive online outreach:
http://e-democracy.org/inclusion
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
> To post: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org or "Reply-to-All" to comment
publicly.
> To leave: Put "unsubscribe" - or for digest write "digest on" - in subject.
>
> Forum Home: http://forums.e-democracy.org/groups/oxford-hm
> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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Although I'm very unlikely to be a customer of Lazy Gamer I sincerely wish them
well. The point about mis-matching artwork, though, is perhaps an indicator of
inexperienced business owners. It goes alongside the announced and then delayed
opening, and their website still being under construction even though the
original opening date has passed. To some people these may only be small things
but good businesses know they have to get them right, not least because they
need to get many other small things right once they start trading or they won't
last long.
Of course it may just be that they've been unlucky and everything will go
smoothly and successfully once they get going. I hope so and will keep my
fingers metaphorically crossed for them.
well. The point about mis-matching artwork, though, is perhaps an indicator of
inexperienced business owners. It goes alongside the announced and then delayed
opening, and their website still being under construction even though the
original opening date has passed. To some people these may only be small things
but good businesses know they have to get them right, not least because they
need to get many other small things right once they start trading or they won't
last long.
Of course it may just be that they've been unlucky and everything will go
smoothly and successfully once they get going. I hope so and will keep my
fingers metaphorically crossed for them.
I know lots of people who wanted Costa Coffee to open including many Mother's
with babies in buggies who find all the coffee shops in Headington packed and
not enough space if they want to meet their friends with babies in buggies
too.Seems some people would rather see empty shops, coffee shops bring vibrancy
and a place for people to meet and chat with friends, if there are too many of
them why are they always packed? I for one don't see why we need a comic shop
and wouldn't be surprised to see it close within a couple of years but let's
see if people use it.
with babies in buggies who find all the coffee shops in Headington packed and
not enough space if they want to meet their friends with babies in buggies
too.Seems some people would rather see empty shops, coffee shops bring vibrancy
and a place for people to meet and chat with friends, if there are too many of
them why are they always packed? I for one don't see why we need a comic shop
and wouldn't be surprised to see it close within a couple of years but let's
see if people use it.
Colin - as far as I can tell, the plan is for Lazy Gamer to be both a comic
store and also a LAN gaming centre. So it certainly has the potential to meet
your requirement that an establishment brings vibrancy and a place for people
to meet and chat with friends.
On another note, these mothers who cannot find coffee shops with enough space
for their buggies clearly haven't been to Starbucks!
store and also a LAN gaming centre. So it certainly has the potential to meet
your requirement that an establishment brings vibrancy and a place for people
to meet and chat with friends.
On another note, these mothers who cannot find coffee shops with enough space
for their buggies clearly haven't been to Starbucks!
It is always sad to see empty shops on a high street, however, I don't
think we should let our haste at rectifying this have a detrimental effect
on Headington in the long run. I'm sorry if I'm making an assumption that
others tastes may be similar to myself, but personally I would feel more
motivated to spend some time browsing a shopping area if it had more varied
independent shops as opposed to more of the same that you can find anywhere.
I can understand that consumers like the consistency that starbucks and
costa offer, and when presented with a choice of the unknown or a brand
that you are familiar with many will choose the known brand. However, some
small businesses work and some fail; but because the big chains can afford
to run with less of a profit or even making a loss, once they have moved
into a premises they tend to stay there for a long time - leaving less
available premises for more interesting small businesses to try to develop.
I don't think that we should let this rhetoric blight our high streets, as
many popular high streets trade off their variety. I guess it is not just a
question of what we would like Headington to be like, but do we want all of
our high streets to look the same? Why would you bother to visit another if
this were the case? Plus when shops do not have a brand to rely on, they
often have to go the extra mile by giving you that bit better service, and
often a slightly cheaper cup of decent coffee (of which I have enjoyed in
Cafe Noir and Jacobs & Field).
All that being said I have to admit they do serve a purpose, as if I have
decided to treat myself on an afternoon out to a cup of coffee
and possibly even a slice of cake, I would be annoyed to find
myself consuming it in a creche, given a growing culture by parents of
inflicting their precious children upon others at any opportunity.
@ Roger: On another note I, too, wouldn't choose to invest in a comic shop,
as it would be very risky - hence you rarely see shops that only
sell comics. Although perhaps the more successful ones that I have
visited have succeeded due to building a community around them,
interestingly one of them from being linked to a cafe.
On Wed, Feb 22, 2012 at 5:21 PM, James Buchanan <<email obscured>
think we should let our haste at rectifying this have a detrimental effect
on Headington in the long run. I'm sorry if I'm making an assumption that
others tastes may be similar to myself, but personally I would feel more
motivated to spend some time browsing a shopping area if it had more varied
independent shops as opposed to more of the same that you can find anywhere.
I can understand that consumers like the consistency that starbucks and
costa offer, and when presented with a choice of the unknown or a brand
that you are familiar with many will choose the known brand. However, some
small businesses work and some fail; but because the big chains can afford
to run with less of a profit or even making a loss, once they have moved
into a premises they tend to stay there for a long time - leaving less
available premises for more interesting small businesses to try to develop.
I don't think that we should let this rhetoric blight our high streets, as
many popular high streets trade off their variety. I guess it is not just a
question of what we would like Headington to be like, but do we want all of
our high streets to look the same? Why would you bother to visit another if
this were the case? Plus when shops do not have a brand to rely on, they
often have to go the extra mile by giving you that bit better service, and
often a slightly cheaper cup of decent coffee (of which I have enjoyed in
Cafe Noir and Jacobs & Field).
All that being said I have to admit they do serve a purpose, as if I have
decided to treat myself on an afternoon out to a cup of coffee
and possibly even a slice of cake, I would be annoyed to find
myself consuming it in a creche, given a growing culture by parents of
inflicting their precious children upon others at any opportunity.
@ Roger: On another note I, too, wouldn't choose to invest in a comic shop,
as it would be very risky - hence you rarely see shops that only
sell comics. Although perhaps the more successful ones that I have
visited have succeeded due to building a community around them,
interestingly one of them from being linked to a cafe.
On Wed, Feb 22, 2012 at 5:21 PM, James Buchanan <<email obscured>
James- They did try Starbucks and it was full ( possibly because chain coffee
shops are popular?!) and the other ones in Headington are too small.There
almost seems to be a snobbish attitude when it comes to coffee shops in
Headington ( Cafe Noir and Jacobs and field seem ok because they attract the
right sort of people) etc. As for Lazy Gamer (live the dream) it's not my thing
but I suggest you use it or lose it.
shops are popular?!) and the other ones in Headington are too small.There
almost seems to be a snobbish attitude when it comes to coffee shops in
Headington ( Cafe Noir and Jacobs and field seem ok because they attract the
right sort of people) etc. As for Lazy Gamer (live the dream) it's not my thing
but I suggest you use it or lose it.
I was just reading in todays paper that Witney are going to create a 'cultural
quarter' where cafes are going to be encouraged, what a refreshing attitude
they are taking in contrast to the one taken by planners and a minority of
people in Headington.
quarter' where cafes are going to be encouraged, what a refreshing attitude
they are taking in contrast to the one taken by planners and a minority of
people in Headington.
I'm not sure how useful it is to compare Witney and Headington, since Witney
is a sizeable market town and Headington a suburban shopping centre in a
larger city. As such, Witney is probably large enough to have a 'cultural
quarter' wherase Headington is not. Will this 'cultural quarter' have more
than just cafes? I thought 'culture' involved more than just drinking
cappuccinos at street side cafes, but perhaps that's the difference between
Oxford and Witney.
I reckon there must be about ten places wherer you can already buy coffee in
Headington, not bad for a place where there's an anti-coffee shop element.
Mary Clarkson (Cllr)
Marston Ward
Oxford City Council
is a sizeable market town and Headington a suburban shopping centre in a
larger city. As such, Witney is probably large enough to have a 'cultural
quarter' wherase Headington is not. Will this 'cultural quarter' have more
than just cafes? I thought 'culture' involved more than just drinking
cappuccinos at street side cafes, but perhaps that's the difference between
Oxford and Witney.
I reckon there must be about ten places wherer you can already buy coffee in
Headington, not bad for a place where there's an anti-coffee shop element.
Mary Clarkson (Cllr)
Marston Ward
Oxford City Council
I'm not happy to see all this negativity surrounding the new business Lazy
Gamer. There are some quite harsh comments here too. I appreciate your your
concern on whats best for the high street and the community, but this kind of
business does actually reflect a large population and has built up quite a buzz
of people who are excited to FINALLY see something like this emerge in Oxford
(see Facebook and Twitter pages for example).
Starting any business is tricky, especially if it is your first time, but you
come to learn what works which is exactly what they are doing at the moment
with their 'delayed' opening, which is actually testing the store with the
community to find out their thoughts on the store. They've been offering
exciting events and free gaming and staying there till goodness 'o' clock
tweeking and seeing what times people like. They're now spending the next few
days putting in suggestions from the community. That was this weekend,
hopefully some of you popped in to see what its all about! If not, I suggest
you go and speak to the lovely guys who are doing their utmost to make this
business work. Or have a look at their Twitter and Facebook pages.
If its not for you, fair enough! Some of you have stated that politely and
wished the business well, but give them a chance before you start nitpicking!
Go in and say hi! They're lovely guys and really value feedback. One likes
Yorkie and the other likes bourbon biscuits ;) give them a welcome package and
a little uplifting boost! I'm proud of them for going for it in these tricky
times!
https://twitter.com/lazygameruk
http://www.facebook.com/LazyGamerUK
Gamer. There are some quite harsh comments here too. I appreciate your your
concern on whats best for the high street and the community, but this kind of
business does actually reflect a large population and has built up quite a buzz
of people who are excited to FINALLY see something like this emerge in Oxford
(see Facebook and Twitter pages for example).
Starting any business is tricky, especially if it is your first time, but you
come to learn what works which is exactly what they are doing at the moment
with their 'delayed' opening, which is actually testing the store with the
community to find out their thoughts on the store. They've been offering
exciting events and free gaming and staying there till goodness 'o' clock
tweeking and seeing what times people like. They're now spending the next few
days putting in suggestions from the community. That was this weekend,
hopefully some of you popped in to see what its all about! If not, I suggest
you go and speak to the lovely guys who are doing their utmost to make this
business work. Or have a look at their Twitter and Facebook pages.
If its not for you, fair enough! Some of you have stated that politely and
wished the business well, but give them a chance before you start nitpicking!
Go in and say hi! They're lovely guys and really value feedback. One likes
Yorkie and the other likes bourbon biscuits ;) give them a welcome package and
a little uplifting boost! I'm proud of them for going for it in these tricky
times!
https://twitter.com/lazygameruk
http://www.facebook.com/LazyGamerUK
I was very pleased to see LazyGamer open. I think the problem is that most
people on this forum are of mature years. I like computer games, but wouldn't
have the nerve at my age to show my face that shop!
But you must admit that the opening has been extraordinarily messy. The
following tweet came through only this morning to say that the business is
closed again:
"The store will be closed while we make the changes you guys suggested and to
have fibre optic broadband installed. We'll be back next week!"
I do a news page for Headington and have been giving a lot of misinformation to
people about the LazyGamer based on the information they were supplying. And
it's such a shame when it had such good publicity in the Oxford Mail:
http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/archive/2012/03/01/Oxford+news+%28om_oxfordnews%29/9561539.It_s_game_on_for_video_fans/
(Going back to the subject of this thread: the former Cartridge World shop
appears to be to let again with Liggins Thomas.)
people on this forum are of mature years. I like computer games, but wouldn't
have the nerve at my age to show my face that shop!
But you must admit that the opening has been extraordinarily messy. The
following tweet came through only this morning to say that the business is
closed again:
"The store will be closed while we make the changes you guys suggested and to
have fibre optic broadband installed. We'll be back next week!"
I do a news page for Headington and have been giving a lot of misinformation to
people about the LazyGamer based on the information they were supplying. And
it's such a shame when it had such good publicity in the Oxford Mail:
http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/archive/2012/03/01/Oxford+news+%28om_oxfordnews%29/9561539.It_s_game_on_for_video_fans/
(Going back to the subject of this thread: the former Cartridge World shop
appears to be to let again with Liggins Thomas.)
I understand your comment about the opening and can appreciate that yes that
hasn't gone to plan, also I'm sure they would agree that its not gone exactly
how they wanted so far but have unfortunately had some problems with suppliers
delaying them and technical problems, as you do with things like this. But
none the less I wish them the best and hope you do too :)
hasn't gone to plan, also I'm sure they would agree that its not gone exactly
how they wanted so far but have unfortunately had some problems with suppliers
delaying them and technical problems, as you do with things like this. But
none the less I wish them the best and hope you do too :)
A lot of people I know have been very interested in LazyGamer opening and most
of them are aged 30-45 so I don't think age is an issue. These are the people
with a disposable income who enjoy gaming and/or comics who will support such a
local venture and bring others in.
Lazy Gamer are sensible guys - they've listened to their customers and
identified issues, far better to get those ironed out first and if that means
closing for three days then that's fine. They charge sensibly so that will cut
out groups of youths taking over and potentially causing issues. They'll supply
pizza and coffee - coming from other local businesses so are supporting them.
Admittedly, it's not my cup of tea but I can see the appeal and think it'll
have a bigger audience than most of my fellow forum members think. And despite
the fact that I never play games, I will go in and wish them luck. I'll
probably take a coffee with me from Jacob & Field too...
of them are aged 30-45 so I don't think age is an issue. These are the people
with a disposable income who enjoy gaming and/or comics who will support such a
local venture and bring others in.
Lazy Gamer are sensible guys - they've listened to their customers and
identified issues, far better to get those ironed out first and if that means
closing for three days then that's fine. They charge sensibly so that will cut
out groups of youths taking over and potentially causing issues. They'll supply
pizza and coffee - coming from other local businesses so are supporting them.
Admittedly, it's not my cup of tea but I can see the appeal and think it'll
have a bigger audience than most of my fellow forum members think. And despite
the fact that I never play games, I will go in and wish them luck. I'll
probably take a coffee with me from Jacob & Field too...
Age has nothing whatsoever to do with the enjoyment of playing games, video or
otherwise!
I am sick of the assumption that because I am female, knocking on for 30 and
currently somewhat with child that I couldn't possibly enjoy gaming and should
take up knitting instead (actually I do knit, but that's beside the point) - I
am eagerly awaiting the release of Mass Effect 3 on Friday, for a start. I
don't get taken seriously in the big-box shops like Game because I'm not a
teenaged boy, nor am I buying for one, thus I might infect everyone with my
terrible Girl Germs(tm). Independents rarely take the same attitude and thus I
am all for Lazy Gamer.
I like comics too! I will most certainly be paying them a visit, probably (like
Becca) with a J&F coffee and my Waitrose shopping...
otherwise!
I am sick of the assumption that because I am female, knocking on for 30 and
currently somewhat with child that I couldn't possibly enjoy gaming and should
take up knitting instead (actually I do knit, but that's beside the point) - I
am eagerly awaiting the release of Mass Effect 3 on Friday, for a start. I
don't get taken seriously in the big-box shops like Game because I'm not a
teenaged boy, nor am I buying for one, thus I might infect everyone with my
terrible Girl Germs(tm). Independents rarely take the same attitude and thus I
am all for Lazy Gamer.
I like comics too! I will most certainly be paying them a visit, probably (like
Becca) with a J&F coffee and my Waitrose shopping...
So can Lazy Gamer serve coffee? Is so why can they, and Costa Coffee can't?
Lazy Gamer is not my thing but if that's what some people want, good luck to
them.
Lazy Gamer is not my thing but if that's what some people want, good luck to
them.
Oh for goodness sake! No, Lazy Gamer do not serve coffee - but they can go to
one of the MANY coffee shops nearby and get coffee for their customers if
required!
one of the MANY coffee shops nearby and get coffee for their customers if
required!
But Becca, in your last message you said about LazyGamer "They'll supply
pizza and coffee": I think that is what Colin is picking up on.
If LazyGamer is classified as an internet café, though, it would in fact be
allowed to serve food. (Bizarrely, *internet* cafés are classified as A1
retail.)
pizza and coffee": I think that is what Colin is picking up on.
If LazyGamer is classified as an internet café, though, it would in fact be
allowed to serve food. (Bizarrely, *internet* cafés are classified as A1
retail.)
That is bizare Stephanie, so we can have cafes that serve food but not coffee?
but a place that can not serve coffee can buy coffee at another place that can
serve coffee to give to their customers? How confusing.
but a place that can not serve coffee can buy coffee at another place that can
serve coffee to give to their customers? How confusing.
Sorry, by food I meant food and drink. An internet café is a very special
case: they are allowed to serve both food and drink to their customers.
Whether LazyGamer would describe itself as an internet café, I don't know: to
me it seems more A1 retail with a bit of sui generis (=amusement centre in this
context), but I am not a planner.
Any retail shop can sell sandwiches to eat off the premises. Similarly the cups
of coffee that Starbucks sell and that customers take away to drink count as A1
retail (that makes Starbucks joint A1/A3).
Have a look at the Use Classes Order: that explains exactly what all the
classes mean:
http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/changeofuse/
A1 use is heavily protected in Headington.
case: they are allowed to serve both food and drink to their customers.
Whether LazyGamer would describe itself as an internet café, I don't know: to
me it seems more A1 retail with a bit of sui generis (=amusement centre in this
context), but I am not a planner.
Any retail shop can sell sandwiches to eat off the premises. Similarly the cups
of coffee that Starbucks sell and that customers take away to drink count as A1
retail (that makes Starbucks joint A1/A3).
Have a look at the Use Classes Order: that explains exactly what all the
classes mean:
http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/changeofuse/
A1 use is heavily protected in Headington.
Thank you for this comment, Kirsty. I am also disappointed to see so
much negativity from our council of "elders", as it reeks of
stereotyping and the arrogant dismissal of a large number of
constituents. I agree that age is irrelevant: we know clever people,
aged 8 - 80 who happen to love games and comics and building
community. Many of them have PhDs and respectable jobs and money to
spend on such a product, who consider such an investment much better
than wasting one's life in front of the television. I am pleased the
store is already soliciting and implementing feedback from its actual
customer base, and I hope they will be rewarded by steady success.
Cheers,
Lisa Makros
Oxford
much negativity from our council of "elders", as it reeks of
stereotyping and the arrogant dismissal of a large number of
constituents. I agree that age is irrelevant: we know clever people,
aged 8 - 80 who happen to love games and comics and building
community. Many of them have PhDs and respectable jobs and money to
spend on such a product, who consider such an investment much better
than wasting one's life in front of the television. I am pleased the
store is already soliciting and implementing feedback from its actual
customer base, and I hope they will be rewarded by steady success.
Cheers,
Lisa Makros
Oxford
Lazy gamer will indeed do very well! For those that are knocking lazy gamer
they should maybe first find out exactly what type of products this kind of
leisure venue offers. This type of venue has become exceedingly popular all
over the country including Oxford [shire] - Headington was just slow in keeping
up with the times, it took a few years for someone to open this type of
business here, it WILL EXCEL! Headington does need to keep up with the times in
what facilities are on offer, something from 20 years ago probably does not
work any more. It must also have been forgotten by some that Headington is
packed with students, who will spend a lot of time and money in such places -
surely better that the pubs; having said that I fully agree there is not an age
issue on who uses "Internet Cafes" as was said 8 to 80, absolutely not to do
with age. It is purely if you like this kind of venue, or just need an internet
connection for a while. Not everyone likes to bet but we have betting shops as
an example.
Lazy Gamer will survive other shops and business in Headington for sure. Times
have changed and luckily so now is Headington.
they should maybe first find out exactly what type of products this kind of
leisure venue offers. This type of venue has become exceedingly popular all
over the country including Oxford [shire] - Headington was just slow in keeping
up with the times, it took a few years for someone to open this type of
business here, it WILL EXCEL! Headington does need to keep up with the times in
what facilities are on offer, something from 20 years ago probably does not
work any more. It must also have been forgotten by some that Headington is
packed with students, who will spend a lot of time and money in such places -
surely better that the pubs; having said that I fully agree there is not an age
issue on who uses "Internet Cafes" as was said 8 to 80, absolutely not to do
with age. It is purely if you like this kind of venue, or just need an internet
connection for a while. Not everyone likes to bet but we have betting shops as
an example.
Lazy Gamer will survive other shops and business in Headington for sure. Times
have changed and luckily so now is Headington.
I popped into the Lazy Gamer and I admire their efforts on opening such a
business in these times.
I think they need all the support from the local community they can get. And
certainly I think Stephanie should be invited to try out their hi-tech stuff!!
I AM a comics fan and I know that there is zero money to be made from opening a
comic shop in this day and age (mainly because of same day digital release by
the big publishers).
I am sure if Mary Portas or the Forte woman were to stridently march into the
lazy gamer they would demand that they flogged coffees, pizza and anything else
to their customers.
And if, after the way subway, costa, starbaucks and everyone else has been
blatantly taking the piss in Oxford, the LG was in someway penalised it would
be grotesquely unfair.
They need their shop stuffed with indolent Brookes students and spotty
teenagers consuming huge quantities of unhealthy food and playing computer
games every waking moment...
business in these times.
I think they need all the support from the local community they can get. And
certainly I think Stephanie should be invited to try out their hi-tech stuff!!
I AM a comics fan and I know that there is zero money to be made from opening a
comic shop in this day and age (mainly because of same day digital release by
the big publishers).
I am sure if Mary Portas or the Forte woman were to stridently march into the
lazy gamer they would demand that they flogged coffees, pizza and anything else
to their customers.
And if, after the way subway, costa, starbaucks and everyone else has been
blatantly taking the piss in Oxford, the LG was in someway penalised it would
be grotesquely unfair.
They need their shop stuffed with indolent Brookes students and spotty
teenagers consuming huge quantities of unhealthy food and playing computer
games every waking moment...
So if Costa Coffee get some computers in they can suddenly serve food and
drink? How very strange that a cafe can serve food and drinks just because it'
got computers in.
drink? How very strange that a cafe can serve food and drinks just because it'
got computers in.
The computers have to be the primary reason for the shop; bringing a few
computers into Costa Coffee would not make it an internet café. I don't really
think that LazyGamer could come into that category either, but it is more on
the right lines.
There is an interesting article here mentioning the inconsistent approaches
taken by planning authorities towards coffee shops:
http://www.dpp-ltd.com/our-knowledge/articles/cafe-culture.aspx
The link I sent in my last message about the Use Classes Order was fine on the
web version but took in a bit of the next line in the email version, so here it
is again:
http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/changeofuse/
computers into Costa Coffee would not make it an internet café. I don't really
think that LazyGamer could come into that category either, but it is more on
the right lines.
There is an interesting article here mentioning the inconsistent approaches
taken by planning authorities towards coffee shops:
http://www.dpp-ltd.com/our-knowledge/articles/cafe-culture.aspx
The link I sent in my last message about the Use Classes Order was fine on the
web version but took in a bit of the next line in the email version, so here it
is again:
http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/changeofuse/
In answer to Colin.. Yes. I used to go to a costa internet cafe back in my
london days...
london days...
Stephanie -
Can you cut and paste the Lazy Gamer discussion to a new thread, perhaps called
"Lazy Gamer"? Just asking:)
Can you cut and paste the Lazy Gamer discussion to a new thread, perhaps called
"Lazy Gamer"? Just asking:)
I don't have any power to move messages or change them. And Costa and
LazyGamer are inextricably linked in some of these posts.
I suggest that the next person who wants to post about LazyGamer starts a new
thread; and if it is a reply to a message on this thread they could quote the
relevant part.
LazyGamer are inextricably linked in some of these posts.
I suggest that the next person who wants to post about LazyGamer starts a new
thread; and if it is a reply to a message on this thread they could quote the
relevant part.
Are we to draw any conclusions from the "to let" sign now on the window of (the
former) Cartridge World?
Does this mean Costa have given up?
former) Cartridge World?
Does this mean Costa have given up?
That's how I would interpret it. There was a small To Let sign put up before 4
May, and the big one went up yesterday. It isn't on the Liggins Thomas website
yet, though. I keep looking:
http://www.ligginsthomas.co.uk/
Presumably the planning permission for expansion will be available to anyone
who takes the shop on, which will doubtless raise the rent. I don't expect
Cartridge World will come back, even though they didn't want to leave.
May, and the big one went up yesterday. It isn't on the Liggins Thomas website
yet, though. I keep looking:
http://www.ligginsthomas.co.uk/
Presumably the planning permission for expansion will be available to anyone
who takes the shop on, which will doubtless raise the rent. I don't expect
Cartridge World will come back, even though they didn't want to leave.
Out of curiosity, everyone, what type of shop would each of you like to open up
where cartridge world were? [ and why did they leave, I somehow missed that ].
The reason for my question is that some people have been very critical of new
shops and business opening up, so it really would be interesting to see what
everyone thinks would add to the appeal of Headington. Obviously we are
unlikely to get a butcher, grocers etc as they just can not compete and make a
living these days, but if that is truly what you would like then put that as
your answer. I will keep details of any replies to this over the next month
and then post the results for all to see - assuming that anyone thinks of what
they really would like/need...
where cartridge world were? [ and why did they leave, I somehow missed that ].
The reason for my question is that some people have been very critical of new
shops and business opening up, so it really would be interesting to see what
everyone thinks would add to the appeal of Headington. Obviously we are
unlikely to get a butcher, grocers etc as they just can not compete and make a
living these days, but if that is truly what you would like then put that as
your answer. I will keep details of any replies to this over the next month
and then post the results for all to see - assuming that anyone thinks of what
they really would like/need...
I would love to see an Argos in Headington.
I would like to see a greengrocers like the nice one that was there before
Cartridge World.
Anita Essex
Cartridge World.
Anita Essex
A really good organic greengrocer would be good.
David Clover
David Clover
I agree that that was a very good greengrocer shop. But I suspect it's very
difficult for an independent greengrocer to compete with the supermarkets.
difficult for an independent greengrocer to compete with the supermarkets.
"I would love to see an Argos in Headington"
Why? It's overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants.
Besides we have a Homebase up the road and that's the same.
How about opening a drop in centre, or a needle exchange?
Why? It's overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants.
Besides we have a Homebase up the road and that's the same.
How about opening a drop in centre, or a needle exchange?
I also cannot see a green grocer surviving unfortunately (or a butcher for that
matter). I think too much of their potential market would be taken by Jacob and
Field, Waitrose and the home delivery organic places like Able and Cole.
I'm not too fussy about what goes in. I'd like it to NOT be another charity
shop, betting agency, or estate agent. Headington already suffers as a shopping
venue because of the feel-I tend to go to Summertown these days instead, even
though it is further and traffic is worse.
I see the broad appeal of something mainstream like an argos (if the site if
large enough). Argos provides a much broader range of goods than homebase, and
the homebase "up the road" isn't close enough for people who don't drive. I
think something like and argos would help draw more shoppers to the area,
helping places like the Lazy Gamer and Coco Noir with footfall. Plus I don't
see argos biting into the market of the existing shops really.
Someone boutique would be great-but you've got to have someone really commited
to it. A toy store would be good, or a clothing store perhaps. The market
probably isn't off line enough for a book store these days.
As for a drop in center/needle exchange, I'm not sure what planning rules are
for this, but it doesn't feel like the right place for a needle exchange.
Perhaps I've not looked hard enough, but I've not noticed much of an IV drug
problem around Headington. I grew up in a big city with those sort of problems
apparent, so think it is a good idea if there is a "market", but don't see the
market. A drop in center is a good idea, but in this age of austerity...?
matter). I think too much of their potential market would be taken by Jacob and
Field, Waitrose and the home delivery organic places like Able and Cole.
I'm not too fussy about what goes in. I'd like it to NOT be another charity
shop, betting agency, or estate agent. Headington already suffers as a shopping
venue because of the feel-I tend to go to Summertown these days instead, even
though it is further and traffic is worse.
I see the broad appeal of something mainstream like an argos (if the site if
large enough). Argos provides a much broader range of goods than homebase, and
the homebase "up the road" isn't close enough for people who don't drive. I
think something like and argos would help draw more shoppers to the area,
helping places like the Lazy Gamer and Coco Noir with footfall. Plus I don't
see argos biting into the market of the existing shops really.
Someone boutique would be great-but you've got to have someone really commited
to it. A toy store would be good, or a clothing store perhaps. The market
probably isn't off line enough for a book store these days.
As for a drop in center/needle exchange, I'm not sure what planning rules are
for this, but it doesn't feel like the right place for a needle exchange.
Perhaps I've not looked hard enough, but I've not noticed much of an IV drug
problem around Headington. I grew up in a big city with those sort of problems
apparent, so think it is a good idea if there is a "market", but don't see the
market. A drop in center is a good idea, but in this age of austerity...?
I would quite like to see an Argos in Headington and would certainly use it a
lot; but am not sure if this shop is big enough, as Argos must need a huge
hidden storage area. And it would eat into the trade of Electric Aids, an
extremely valuable local shop.
There is so much missing in Headington that everyone is going to want something
different. I would vote for a Long Tall Sally, as the nearest one is in
Reading.
But if we end up with a charity shop, I would like one that only sold books,
such as the Oxfam ones in St Giles and the Turl.
lot; but am not sure if this shop is big enough, as Argos must need a huge
hidden storage area. And it would eat into the trade of Electric Aids, an
extremely valuable local shop.
There is so much missing in Headington that everyone is going to want something
different. I would vote for a Long Tall Sally, as the nearest one is in
Reading.
But if we end up with a charity shop, I would like one that only sold books,
such as the Oxfam ones in St Giles and the Turl.
Surely a better place for a drop in 'center' [sic], and indeed a toy 'store'
[sic] would be the United States?
Regards
Noam Bleicher
078 1847 1655
056 0268 4870
> From: <email obscured>
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
> Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:27:05 +1300
>
> I also cannot see a green grocer surviving unfortunately (or a butcher for
that matter). I think too much of their potential market would be taken by
Jacob and Field, Waitrose and the home delivery organic places like Able and
Cole.
>
> I'm not too fussy about what goes in. I'd like it to NOT be another charity
shop, betting agency, or estate agent. Headington already suffers as a shopping
venue because of the feel-I tend to go to Summertown these days instead, even
though it is further and traffic is worse.
>
> I see the broad appeal of something mainstream like an argos (if the site if
large enough). Argos provides a much broader range of goods than homebase, and
the homebase "up the road" isn't close enough for people who don't drive. I
think something like and argos would help draw more shoppers to the area,
helping places like the Lazy Gamer and Coco Noir with footfall. Plus I don't
see argos biting into the market of the existing shops really.
>
> Someone boutique would be great-but you've got to have someone really
commited to it. A toy store would be good, or a clothing store perhaps. The
market probably isn't off line enough for a book store these days.
>
> As for a drop in center/needle exchange, I'm not sure what planning rules are
for this, but it doesn't feel like the right place for a needle exchange.
Perhaps I've not looked hard enough, but I've not noticed much of an IV drug
problem around Headington. I grew up in a big city with those sort of problems
apparent, so think it is a good idea if there is a "market", but don't see the
market. A drop in center is a good idea, but in this age of austerity...?
> Adam Ritchie
> [u'Marston', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Adam Ritchie: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/2hs0Uueb23N5h2H0HDWfna
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/1hYsmxNcF3JytHVlFtuSuU
>
> Special News: Deep Dish Community Engagement:
http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
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[sic] would be the United States?
Regards
Noam Bleicher
078 1847 1655
056 0268 4870
> From: <email obscured>
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
> Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:27:05 +1300
>
> I also cannot see a green grocer surviving unfortunately (or a butcher for
that matter). I think too much of their potential market would be taken by
Jacob and Field, Waitrose and the home delivery organic places like Able and
Cole.
>
> I'm not too fussy about what goes in. I'd like it to NOT be another charity
shop, betting agency, or estate agent. Headington already suffers as a shopping
venue because of the feel-I tend to go to Summertown these days instead, even
though it is further and traffic is worse.
>
> I see the broad appeal of something mainstream like an argos (if the site if
large enough). Argos provides a much broader range of goods than homebase, and
the homebase "up the road" isn't close enough for people who don't drive. I
think something like and argos would help draw more shoppers to the area,
helping places like the Lazy Gamer and Coco Noir with footfall. Plus I don't
see argos biting into the market of the existing shops really.
>
> Someone boutique would be great-but you've got to have someone really
commited to it. A toy store would be good, or a clothing store perhaps. The
market probably isn't off line enough for a book store these days.
>
> As for a drop in center/needle exchange, I'm not sure what planning rules are
for this, but it doesn't feel like the right place for a needle exchange.
Perhaps I've not looked hard enough, but I've not noticed much of an IV drug
problem around Headington. I grew up in a big city with those sort of problems
apparent, so think it is a good idea if there is a "market", but don't see the
market. A drop in center is a good idea, but in this age of austerity...?
> Adam Ritchie
> [u'Marston', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Adam Ritchie: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/2hs0Uueb23N5h2H0HDWfna
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/1hYsmxNcF3JytHVlFtuSuU
>
> Special News: Deep Dish Community Engagement:
http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
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For goodness sake, we were asked what shop we would like to see and I
responded, stop nit picking and just accept peoples opinions. "I" would
like to see an Argos shop and I really don't care what your thoughts are on
that as it's my opinion. What would you like to see there?
responded, stop nit picking and just accept peoples opinions. "I" would
like to see an Argos shop and I really don't care what your thoughts are on
that as it's my opinion. What would you like to see there?
Yes Norma, nit picking appears all too often on these boards. At least 2 more
of us agree that an argos would be a good addition to Headington, so your
suggestion seems like a good one to me!
And Noam, is that really a good use of a post/email to everyone to try and
correct my Americanized spelling? Welcome to globalization, and interacting
with people who grew up in other nations.
of us agree that an argos would be a good addition to Headington, so your
suggestion seems like a good one to me!
And Noam, is that really a good use of a post/email to everyone to try and
correct my Americanized spelling? Welcome to globalization, and interacting
with people who grew up in other nations.
American and English spellings are both very welcome and correct.
It isn't appropriate to discuss people's spelling here (although in fact the
standard of spelling on this forum is actually way above that of most message
boards).
It isn't appropriate to discuss people's spelling here (although in fact the
standard of spelling on this forum is actually way above that of most message
boards).
Usually we Americans are a bit slow to catch on to the nuances of indirect
English communication, but let me attempt to deconstruct Patrick's message for
you guys who are taking it literally. (I've also tried to use British English
(BrE) when I spot my American spelling slipping)
>"I would love to see an Argos in Headington"
>
>Why? It's overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants.
>Besides we have a Homebase up the road and that's the same.
"overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants" is completely
inconsistent with Argos, which is cheap, has a huge range, and sells a lot of
stuff people want. Maybe this is a hint that he is being sarcastic?
Homebase "up the road" here is actually on the ring road. Which is where the
larger spaces demanded by modern retail exist. Even the Oxford Pram
Centre/Shoppe (sorry, is that the correct BrE spelling?) has moved to the ring
road!
>
>How about opening a drop in centre, or a needle exchange?
Sarcastic snobbery as Argos is too "down market" for the posh Headington forum?
English communication, but let me attempt to deconstruct Patrick's message for
you guys who are taking it literally. (I've also tried to use British English
(BrE) when I spot my American spelling slipping)
>"I would love to see an Argos in Headington"
>
>Why? It's overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants.
>Besides we have a Homebase up the road and that's the same.
"overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants" is completely
inconsistent with Argos, which is cheap, has a huge range, and sells a lot of
stuff people want. Maybe this is a hint that he is being sarcastic?
Homebase "up the road" here is actually on the ring road. Which is where the
larger spaces demanded by modern retail exist. Even the Oxford Pram
Centre/Shoppe (sorry, is that the correct BrE spelling?) has moved to the ring
road!
>
>How about opening a drop in centre, or a needle exchange?
Sarcastic snobbery as Argos is too "down market" for the posh Headington forum?
Roger you have made many good points that I can agree with and like to see
added to the Headington shopping area. However, regarding a stationers that
sells sticky bits and arty pieces for children, (and adults!), have you found
Leopardpress at 12 Windmill Road? It is not just a printers.
I think it would be a shame if a Costa Coffee does not eventually open in
Headington. Having said that the coffee in Café Bonjour is good!
Cllr Roz Smith
Barton & Churchill Division
t. 01865 750731
Please note new mobile number:
m. 07584 257 156
added to the Headington shopping area. However, regarding a stationers that
sells sticky bits and arty pieces for children, (and adults!), have you found
Leopardpress at 12 Windmill Road? It is not just a printers.
I think it would be a shame if a Costa Coffee does not eventually open in
Headington. Having said that the coffee in Café Bonjour is good!
Cllr Roz Smith
Barton & Churchill Division
t. 01865 750731
Please note new mobile number:
m. 07584 257 156
Also, and surprisingly, Brambles have some stickers...etc for kiddiwinks. Very
enjoyable!
Abigail Rose
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
> Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:21:37 +0000
> From: <email obscured>
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
>
>
>
> Roger you have made many good points that I can agree with and like to see
added to the Headington shopping area. However, regarding a stationers that
sells sticky bits and arty pieces for children, (and adults!), have you found
Leopardpress at 12 Windmill Road? It is not just a printers.
> I think it would be a shame if a Costa Coffee does not eventually open in
Headington. Having said that the coffee in Caf Bonjour is good!
>
>
>
>
> Cllr Roz Smith
> Barton & Churchill Division
> t. 01865 750731
> Please note new mobile number:
> m. 07584 257 156
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
[mailto:oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org] On Behalf Of Roger Lai
> Sent: 14 March 2012 11:06
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
>
> Usually we Americans are a bit slow to catch on to the nuances of indirect
English communication, but let me attempt to deconstruct Patrick's message for
you guys who are taking it literally. (I've also tried to use British English
(BrE) when I spot my American spelling slipping)
>
> >"I would love to see an Argos in Headington"
> >
> >Why? It's overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants.
> >Besides we have a Homebase up the road and that's the same.
>
> "overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants" is completely
inconsistent with Argos, which is cheap, has a huge range, and sells a lot of
stuff people want. Maybe this is a hint that he is being sarcastic?
>
> Homebase "up the road" here is actually on the ring road. Which is where the
larger spaces demanded by modern retail exist. Even the Oxford Pram
Centre/Shoppe (sorry, is that the correct BrE spelling?) has moved to the ring
road!
>
> >
> >How about opening a drop in centre, or a needle exchange?
>
> Sarcastic snobbery as Argos is too "down market" for the posh Headington
forum?
>
> -----------
> As for what I would like to see? Costa Coffee. Someone mentioned that
people drive to Summertown to shop. What do Summertown, the city centre, and
even Cowley Road - THRIVING retail areas - have in common? Costa Coffee. The
one in Summertown is packed with people, and contribute to the cafe culture
there. There are plenty of other places to get coffee there, but people choose
Costa. You can theorize all you want, but this is what is happening in the
real world.
>
> Other shops I think would do well in Headington that I would like to see:
>
> I agree Argos would be GREAT, but as others have pointed out, it needs a lot
more space for storage in the back.
>
> A well-stocked bicycle shop would be nice and probably do very well.
Something aimed at the practical mid-price bicyclist would be good.
>
> Jojo Bebe Maman (oops, they opened in Summertown - maybe they're afraid of
competition from Brambles? ;-) In case nobody's noticed, we have a lot of
children and babies in Headington!
>
> Would be nice to see some more good restaurants, even if they are chains.
>
> We have a few stationers in Headington, but none of them seem to carry a very
deep stock... so for instance if you're a parent looking for stickers or stamps
for your children, Headington has nothing to offer.
>
> A crafty shop like the one in Summertown near Tesco would be nice.
>
> I would not like to see yet another food shoppe (BrE!), even if it's an
organic green grocer. As someone pointed out, this is part of what Jacob and
Fields and the delivery services offer. We also have two ethnic grocery
shoppes (BrE!), Waitrose, and Co-op (which people on this forum seem to ignore
- not posh enough?). Also, now there's a new food shop on London Road.
>
> Also put in another voice for no more charity shops or hairdressers!
>
> If it must be a charity, it would be great to see a storefront location for
Orinoco, with space for children to create crafty projects. Maybe they can
share the space with the story museum people.
>
> A bakery that actually SMELLS like a bakery would probably attract a lot of
people. Add some free wifi, and all those students in the newly built housing
will spend entire afternoons there.
>
> What if the library had a storefront space?
>
> Not neccesarily on the high street, but a co-working space where small
businesses can share resources would be useful. If Peacocks goes, for
instance, that would be a nice big space for something that's part community
centre, part shared offices, and part coffee shop. If more people worked near
Headington, you'd have lunchtime traffic helping to sustain some of the shops.
> Roger Lai
> [u'Headington', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Roger Lai: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/52nRKYEIlvi0tphuLWSznf
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/5SQiurbSr28xfoGHjnpAoU
>
> Special News: Deep Dish Community Engagement:
http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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>
> Roz Smith
> Headington
> About Roz Smith: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/rozsmith
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
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http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
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enjoyable!
Abigail Rose
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
> Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:21:37 +0000
> From: <email obscured>
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
>
>
>
> Roger you have made many good points that I can agree with and like to see
added to the Headington shopping area. However, regarding a stationers that
sells sticky bits and arty pieces for children, (and adults!), have you found
Leopardpress at 12 Windmill Road? It is not just a printers.
> I think it would be a shame if a Costa Coffee does not eventually open in
Headington. Having said that the coffee in Caf Bonjour is good!
>
>
>
>
> Cllr Roz Smith
> Barton & Churchill Division
> t. 01865 750731
> Please note new mobile number:
> m. 07584 257 156
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
[mailto:oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org] On Behalf Of Roger Lai
> Sent: 14 March 2012 11:06
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
>
> Usually we Americans are a bit slow to catch on to the nuances of indirect
English communication, but let me attempt to deconstruct Patrick's message for
you guys who are taking it literally. (I've also tried to use British English
(BrE) when I spot my American spelling slipping)
>
> >"I would love to see an Argos in Headington"
> >
> >Why? It's overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants.
> >Besides we have a Homebase up the road and that's the same.
>
> "overpriced, limited and sells the goods nobody else wants" is completely
inconsistent with Argos, which is cheap, has a huge range, and sells a lot of
stuff people want. Maybe this is a hint that he is being sarcastic?
>
> Homebase "up the road" here is actually on the ring road. Which is where the
larger spaces demanded by modern retail exist. Even the Oxford Pram
Centre/Shoppe (sorry, is that the correct BrE spelling?) has moved to the ring
road!
>
> >
> >How about opening a drop in centre, or a needle exchange?
>
> Sarcastic snobbery as Argos is too "down market" for the posh Headington
forum?
>
> -----------
> As for what I would like to see? Costa Coffee. Someone mentioned that
people drive to Summertown to shop. What do Summertown, the city centre, and
even Cowley Road - THRIVING retail areas - have in common? Costa Coffee. The
one in Summertown is packed with people, and contribute to the cafe culture
there. There are plenty of other places to get coffee there, but people choose
Costa. You can theorize all you want, but this is what is happening in the
real world.
>
> Other shops I think would do well in Headington that I would like to see:
>
> I agree Argos would be GREAT, but as others have pointed out, it needs a lot
more space for storage in the back.
>
> A well-stocked bicycle shop would be nice and probably do very well.
Something aimed at the practical mid-price bicyclist would be good.
>
> Jojo Bebe Maman (oops, they opened in Summertown - maybe they're afraid of
competition from Brambles? ;-) In case nobody's noticed, we have a lot of
children and babies in Headington!
>
> Would be nice to see some more good restaurants, even if they are chains.
>
> We have a few stationers in Headington, but none of them seem to carry a very
deep stock... so for instance if you're a parent looking for stickers or stamps
for your children, Headington has nothing to offer.
>
> A crafty shop like the one in Summertown near Tesco would be nice.
>
> I would not like to see yet another food shoppe (BrE!), even if it's an
organic green grocer. As someone pointed out, this is part of what Jacob and
Fields and the delivery services offer. We also have two ethnic grocery
shoppes (BrE!), Waitrose, and Co-op (which people on this forum seem to ignore
- not posh enough?). Also, now there's a new food shop on London Road.
>
> Also put in another voice for no more charity shops or hairdressers!
>
> If it must be a charity, it would be great to see a storefront location for
Orinoco, with space for children to create crafty projects. Maybe they can
share the space with the story museum people.
>
> A bakery that actually SMELLS like a bakery would probably attract a lot of
people. Add some free wifi, and all those students in the newly built housing
will spend entire afternoons there.
>
> What if the library had a storefront space?
>
> Not neccesarily on the high street, but a co-working space where small
businesses can share resources would be useful. If Peacocks goes, for
instance, that would be a nice big space for something that's part community
centre, part shared offices, and part coffee shop. If more people worked near
Headington, you'd have lunchtime traffic helping to sustain some of the shops.
> Roger Lai
> [u'Headington', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Roger Lai: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/52nRKYEIlvi0tphuLWSznf
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/5SQiurbSr28xfoGHjnpAoU
>
> Special News: Deep Dish Community Engagement:
http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
> To post: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org or "Reply-to-All" to comment
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> To leave: Put "unsubscribe" - or for digest write "digest on" - in subject.
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> This email, including attachments, may contain confidential information. If
you have received it in error, please notify the sender by reply and delete it
immediately. Views expressed by the sender may not be those of Oxfordshire
County Council. Council emails are subject to the Freedom of Information Act
2000. http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/emaildisclaimer
>
> Roz Smith
> Headington
> About Roz Smith: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/rozsmith
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/7LJMy7bINslcPetyAaPOu
>
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http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
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Oh Brambles - one of my favourite shops in Headington. But then being a
grandma to six can be expensive...............and indeed enjoyable!
grandma to six can be expensive...............and indeed enjoyable!
If we must have another coffee shoppe, it's "high" time it was an Amsterdam
style one.
:)
On 14 Mar 2012, at 09:42, Noam Bleicher wrote:
>
> Surely a better place for a drop in 'center' [sic], and indeed a toy 'store'
[sic] would be the United States?
>
> Regards
>
> Noam Bleicher
> 078 1847 1655
> 056 0268 4870
>
>
>> From: <email obscured>
>> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
>> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
>> Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:27:05 +1300
>>
>> I also cannot see a green grocer surviving unfortunately (or a butcher for
that matter). I think too much of their potential market would be taken by
Jacob and Field, Waitrose and the home delivery organic places like Able and
Cole.
>>
>> I'm not too fussy about what goes in. I'd like it to NOT be another charity
shop, betting agency, or estate agent. Headington already suffers as a shopping
venue because of the feel-I tend to go to Summertown these days instead, even
though it is further and traffic is worse.
>>
>> I see the broad appeal of something mainstream like an argos (if the site if
large enough). Argos provides a much broader range of goods than homebase, and
the homebase "up the road" isn't close enough for people who don't drive. I
think something like and argos would help draw more shoppers to the area,
helping places like the Lazy Gamer and Coco Noir with footfall. Plus I don't
see argos biting into the market of the existing shops really.
>>
>> Someone boutique would be great-but you've got to have someone really
commited to it. A toy store would be good, or a clothing store perhaps. The
market probably isn't off line enough for a book store these days.
>>
>> As for a drop in center/needle exchange, I'm not sure what planning rules
are for this, but it doesn't feel like the right place for a needle exchange.
Perhaps I've not looked hard enough, but I've not noticed much of an IV drug
problem around Headington. I grew up in a big city with those sort of problems
apparent, so think it is a good idea if there is a "market", but don't see the
market. A drop in center is a good idea, but in this age of austerity...?
>> Adam Ritchie
>> [u'Marston', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
>> About Adam Ritchie: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/2hs0Uueb23N5h2H0HDWfna
>>
>> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
>> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/1hYsmxNcF3JytHVlFtuSuU
>>
>> Special News: Deep Dish Community Engagement:
http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
>> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>>
>> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
>> To post: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org or "Reply-to-All" to comment
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>
> Noam Bleicher
> Grandpont, Oxford
> About Noam Bleicher: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/3r1u0OpAwUymfsnvetfRmk
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/7mLbFEvEC4jf77rznFU1qL
>
> Special News: Deep Dish Community Engagement:
http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
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style one.
:)
On 14 Mar 2012, at 09:42, Noam Bleicher wrote:
>
> Surely a better place for a drop in 'center' [sic], and indeed a toy 'store'
[sic] would be the United States?
>
> Regards
>
> Noam Bleicher
> 078 1847 1655
> 056 0268 4870
>
>
>> From: <email obscured>
>> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
>> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
>> Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:27:05 +1300
>>
>> I also cannot see a green grocer surviving unfortunately (or a butcher for
that matter). I think too much of their potential market would be taken by
Jacob and Field, Waitrose and the home delivery organic places like Able and
Cole.
>>
>> I'm not too fussy about what goes in. I'd like it to NOT be another charity
shop, betting agency, or estate agent. Headington already suffers as a shopping
venue because of the feel-I tend to go to Summertown these days instead, even
though it is further and traffic is worse.
>>
>> I see the broad appeal of something mainstream like an argos (if the site if
large enough). Argos provides a much broader range of goods than homebase, and
the homebase "up the road" isn't close enough for people who don't drive. I
think something like and argos would help draw more shoppers to the area,
helping places like the Lazy Gamer and Coco Noir with footfall. Plus I don't
see argos biting into the market of the existing shops really.
>>
>> Someone boutique would be great-but you've got to have someone really
commited to it. A toy store would be good, or a clothing store perhaps. The
market probably isn't off line enough for a book store these days.
>>
>> As for a drop in center/needle exchange, I'm not sure what planning rules
are for this, but it doesn't feel like the right place for a needle exchange.
Perhaps I've not looked hard enough, but I've not noticed much of an IV drug
problem around Headington. I grew up in a big city with those sort of problems
apparent, so think it is a good idea if there is a "market", but don't see the
market. A drop in center is a good idea, but in this age of austerity...?
>> Adam Ritchie
>> [u'Marston', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
>> About Adam Ritchie: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/2hs0Uueb23N5h2H0HDWfna
>>
>> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
>> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/1hYsmxNcF3JytHVlFtuSuU
>>
>> Special News: Deep Dish Community Engagement:
http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
>> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>>
>> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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>
> Noam Bleicher
> Grandpont, Oxford
> About Noam Bleicher: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/3r1u0OpAwUymfsnvetfRmk
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/7mLbFEvEC4jf77rznFU1qL
>
> Special News: Deep Dish Community Engagement:
http://blog.e-democracy.org/posts/1372
> Tell your St. Paul and Minneapolis friends to visit: http://beneighbors.org
>
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I think Brambles was shut when I went sticker hunting on the weekend. Leopard
Press is another interesting option - though it's impossible to get a pram in
there.
Some Oxford businesses that I would like to see in Headington:
G&D ice cream
The Mission for burritos
The Big Bang shut their Jericho location and opened a pop-up at Brookes. Maybe
rents are cheap enough in Headington to sustain them? May not have enough
footfall for them.
Mortons sandwiches
Also maybe a nice Italian restaurant? Why don't we have any Italian food in
Headington? And why so many in Summertown? Good choice for students and
families.
Most of the restaurants would need some persuading to move to Headington, since
there isn't much traffic beyond local business at the moment, but something
like a G&D would contribute to traffic in the evenings for students and
families.
As a vulgar American commuter, I would love to have a drive-through coffee
stand just off London Road.
Press is another interesting option - though it's impossible to get a pram in
there.
Some Oxford businesses that I would like to see in Headington:
G&D ice cream
The Mission for burritos
The Big Bang shut their Jericho location and opened a pop-up at Brookes. Maybe
rents are cheap enough in Headington to sustain them? May not have enough
footfall for them.
Mortons sandwiches
Also maybe a nice Italian restaurant? Why don't we have any Italian food in
Headington? And why so many in Summertown? Good choice for students and
families.
Most of the restaurants would need some persuading to move to Headington, since
there isn't much traffic beyond local business at the moment, but something
like a G&D would contribute to traffic in the evenings for students and
families.
As a vulgar American commuter, I would love to have a drive-through coffee
stand just off London Road.
I'd go for a really good butcher and fishmonger or a small intimate cinema,
where you could sit round tables and eat and drink while watching a film. There
are a few places like this around the country and it would be great in
Headington, assumign we could find a suitable location/
Mary Clarkson (Cllr)
Marston Ward
Oxford City Council
where you could sit round tables and eat and drink while watching a film. There
are a few places like this around the country and it would be great in
Headington, assumign we could find a suitable location/
Mary Clarkson (Cllr)
Marston Ward
Oxford City Council
How about a little place where you could decorate white china, let the kids
play and have some coffee (whatever brand) and then come back and collect it
when it has been fired? Such places are quite popular and would fit the spirit
of the times nicely. It would also 'gel' with the Fairtrade shop next door
quite well to make a little 'craft-centred' area.
I don’t drink coffee much because to be honest it isn't that good for you, but
I can't see why, as there is already a perfectly good Starbucks, you'd need a
second large chain shop anyway.
Actually the old 'Top Fruits' greengrocer wasn't that brilliant, especially
towards the end. A Bike shop would be good too, though there's one in Windmill
Road, and they haven't done so well in Headington in the past. There used to be
on in New High Street for a brief period.
David Clover
play and have some coffee (whatever brand) and then come back and collect it
when it has been fired? Such places are quite popular and would fit the spirit
of the times nicely. It would also 'gel' with the Fairtrade shop next door
quite well to make a little 'craft-centred' area.
I don’t drink coffee much because to be honest it isn't that good for you, but
I can't see why, as there is already a perfectly good Starbucks, you'd need a
second large chain shop anyway.
Actually the old 'Top Fruits' greengrocer wasn't that brilliant, especially
towards the end. A Bike shop would be good too, though there's one in Windmill
Road, and they haven't done so well in Headington in the past. There used to be
on in New High Street for a brief period.
David Clover
Butcher, greengrocer and fishmonger! I know butchers and greengrocers were here
and closed down but possibly with the advent of all the TV cooking shows ("Just
get your butcher to do this"),plus locally sourced food etc. a 'specialist'
farm type shop might do well.
Re greengrocers perhaps one providing fruit and vegetables used by our foreign
born residents and adventurous Brits?
Fiona McKenzie
and closed down but possibly with the advent of all the TV cooking shows ("Just
get your butcher to do this"),plus locally sourced food etc. a 'specialist'
farm type shop might do well.
Re greengrocers perhaps one providing fruit and vegetables used by our foreign
born residents and adventurous Brits?
Fiona McKenzie
Brambles and so many other Headington shops have been shut when I've had
the time to look for something. Do the opening hours of many shops in
Headington seem archaic to others?
I doubt that we are to ever see sensible opening times into the early
evening, other than in the big cities, but there are many shops in
Headington that don't open on Sundays and close as early as 5pm on other
days, some charity shops shut as early as 4.30pm. Many of these shops would
get more of my custom, but as they are closed I resort to using the
internet or going elsewhere.
My vote goes for a bike or a book shop, but Roger has also made some
fantastic suggestions I would be ever so happy if Headington were to be
graced with a G&D's, Mission or Big Bang.
the time to look for something. Do the opening hours of many shops in
Headington seem archaic to others?
I doubt that we are to ever see sensible opening times into the early
evening, other than in the big cities, but there are many shops in
Headington that don't open on Sundays and close as early as 5pm on other
days, some charity shops shut as early as 4.30pm. Many of these shops would
get more of my custom, but as they are closed I resort to using the
internet or going elsewhere.
My vote goes for a bike or a book shop, but Roger has also made some
fantastic suggestions I would be ever so happy if Headington were to be
graced with a G&D's, Mission or Big Bang.
It's interesting to see what people have on their wish lists, as we
are lucky to have many of the basics covered with our existing shops.
I wish a community centre was feasible, or some kind of arts
organisation would move in (a dance school, a local theatre company)
that might create more spaces for community interaction.
I also would love to see a local non-chain bookstore, and I wouldn't
object if it sold coffee, too. (It's the one thing I miss about
Borders.) Sadly, I agree that a bookstore would struggle unless
perhaps the Brookes students could buy texts there. Certainly I'd
support a charity books-only shop, as Stephanie describes, as I
support the ones in town. (In the meantime, thank goodness our library
has been saved!)
Are there other kinds of shops that could cater to our many students?
I am sorry that the flower shop was not sustainable (too much
competitions from Waitrose and the Co-op?) and that toy stores cannot
survive in city centre, never mind in our lovely outskirts.
How about a computer repair shop? If they catered to both PCs and
Macs, that could be very useful, without stepping on existing
resources...
Best,
Lisa
are lucky to have many of the basics covered with our existing shops.
I wish a community centre was feasible, or some kind of arts
organisation would move in (a dance school, a local theatre company)
that might create more spaces for community interaction.
I also would love to see a local non-chain bookstore, and I wouldn't
object if it sold coffee, too. (It's the one thing I miss about
Borders.) Sadly, I agree that a bookstore would struggle unless
perhaps the Brookes students could buy texts there. Certainly I'd
support a charity books-only shop, as Stephanie describes, as I
support the ones in town. (In the meantime, thank goodness our library
has been saved!)
Are there other kinds of shops that could cater to our many students?
I am sorry that the flower shop was not sustainable (too much
competitions from Waitrose and the Co-op?) and that toy stores cannot
survive in city centre, never mind in our lovely outskirts.
How about a computer repair shop? If they catered to both PCs and
Macs, that could be very useful, without stepping on existing
resources...
Best,
Lisa
"For goodness sake, we were asked what shop we would like to see and I
responded, stop nit picking and just accept peoples opinions. "I" would like to
see an Argos shop and I really don't care what your thoughts are on that as
it's my opinion. What would you like to see there?"
Sorry Norma, my post wasn't meant to sound personal and sorry if it came across
in that way.
Personally, I 'd like to see a good local bike shop as we are seriously lacking
one of these in our part of town. Loads of people commute through, and work in
Headington and this would be a valuable addition.
"Sarcastic snobbery as Argos is too "down market" for the posh Headington
forum". <--- I didn't mean this at all, I just don't think central Headington
is the right place for a new Argos which is a jack of all trades and a master
at none.
Surely it would also be at odds with existing stores like Electric Aids,
Headington Homewares, A-Z and The Iron Bed company.
I do however think it is a sad state of affairs when a decent Coffee house
wants to open in an unused shop and gets turned down on the basis that it isn't
suitable for the location. Surely an empty shop unit is more of a problem.
responded, stop nit picking and just accept peoples opinions. "I" would like to
see an Argos shop and I really don't care what your thoughts are on that as
it's my opinion. What would you like to see there?"
Sorry Norma, my post wasn't meant to sound personal and sorry if it came across
in that way.
Personally, I 'd like to see a good local bike shop as we are seriously lacking
one of these in our part of town. Loads of people commute through, and work in
Headington and this would be a valuable addition.
"Sarcastic snobbery as Argos is too "down market" for the posh Headington
forum". <--- I didn't mean this at all, I just don't think central Headington
is the right place for a new Argos which is a jack of all trades and a master
at none.
Surely it would also be at odds with existing stores like Electric Aids,
Headington Homewares, A-Z and The Iron Bed company.
I do however think it is a sad state of affairs when a decent Coffee house
wants to open in an unused shop and gets turned down on the basis that it isn't
suitable for the location. Surely an empty shop unit is more of a problem.
My wish list for Headington would be, bigger shops Morrisons, Wilkinsons or
Superdrug, foodwise I'm with Roger, would love to see the Mission Burritos open
along with a Mortons sandwich bar and a decent family run Italian restaurant,
what we do have over Summertown is some pubs ( for now anyway) with Summertown
crazily only having the Dewdrop! I think there is room for another coffee shop
in Headington and would love to see Caffe Nero. In reality I know none of this
would happen, the moaners would moan too much as they want quaint little
Headington to stay the same, so all we will get is more charity shops and
Estate agents and maybe another bookies!
Superdrug, foodwise I'm with Roger, would love to see the Mission Burritos open
along with a Mortons sandwich bar and a decent family run Italian restaurant,
what we do have over Summertown is some pubs ( for now anyway) with Summertown
crazily only having the Dewdrop! I think there is room for another coffee shop
in Headington and would love to see Caffe Nero. In reality I know none of this
would happen, the moaners would moan too much as they want quaint little
Headington to stay the same, so all we will get is more charity shops and
Estate agents and maybe another bookies!
When I was involved in Business Headington I had a call from the owner of La
Cucina in St Clements asking about premises in Headington for them to look at
for a second restaurant. I would suggest La Cucina, Mario's (Cowley Road)
should be welcomed with open arms to Headington. Whether they can be
accommodated under the batty local plan is a different matter.
With Brookes about to close the last of its campus bars / entertainment
facilities, I think Headington is about to miss quite a trick when you consider
the increasing student numbers and their need for evening entertainment.
Unfortunately, the knock on effect of there not being such facilities anymore,
is more late night disturbance as students return to their houses / halls from
the Cowley Road / City in the small hours. At least when the Headington
Student Centre was open the authorities knew where the majority of students
would be AND as residents we had recourse on the trouble makers. Nowadays you
can expect the response "they weren't in one of our venues. Not our
problem....."
And personally, if it can't be a restaurant or a coffee shop (because most of
the suggested businesses are highly likely to be economically unsustainable)
then maybe it needs to stay empty for a while so the landlord has to reduce the
sky-high rent to get anyone in!
Cucina in St Clements asking about premises in Headington for them to look at
for a second restaurant. I would suggest La Cucina, Mario's (Cowley Road)
should be welcomed with open arms to Headington. Whether they can be
accommodated under the batty local plan is a different matter.
With Brookes about to close the last of its campus bars / entertainment
facilities, I think Headington is about to miss quite a trick when you consider
the increasing student numbers and their need for evening entertainment.
Unfortunately, the knock on effect of there not being such facilities anymore,
is more late night disturbance as students return to their houses / halls from
the Cowley Road / City in the small hours. At least when the Headington
Student Centre was open the authorities knew where the majority of students
would be AND as residents we had recourse on the trouble makers. Nowadays you
can expect the response "they weren't in one of our venues. Not our
problem....."
And personally, if it can't be a restaurant or a coffee shop (because most of
the suggested businesses are highly likely to be economically unsustainable)
then maybe it needs to stay empty for a while so the landlord has to reduce the
sky-high rent to get anyone in!
Neil excellent points raised there. I have, ovbiously, been watching the "wish
list" and of course the minority of moans and negative comments - they were and
have to be accepted on here sadly.
Your comment "With Brookes about to close the last of its campus bars /
entertainment facilities, I think Headington is about to miss quite a trick" is
bang on! There is a massive hole for what is needed in that particular leisure
/ entertainment considering, as you point out, the very high number of students
here - and do remember everyone there are large numbers of older students at
Brookes, we are not just takling about 18-20 year olds.
[Lazy Gamer may have arrived at just the right time]
Keep the wish list going please everyone, this was not just an idle question
but a possible business venture...
The Grocer/Butcher/Fishmonger suggestions were bound to be popular, we all
loved those smaller more personal shops - sadly times have moved on and they
just can not survive these days [proven by the lack of them].
There is however a way this might work, does anyone here ever go over to the
lovely Emerald Isle? Those shops in the smaller villages and towns that are the
Grocer/Butcher/Fishmonger and sell other usual every day items, papers, even
the lottery - and at the back they have a bar. Now I am in no way suggesting
the bar part of this successful formula, but stick a good coffee shop with free
wi-fi at the back of the shop, with easy access for disabled people, prams...
well you see where I am going I guess - and personally that most definitely IS
a business investment I personally would make in Headington.
Anyway thanks all for the interesting ideas and views, keep them coming :)
list" and of course the minority of moans and negative comments - they were and
have to be accepted on here sadly.
Your comment "With Brookes about to close the last of its campus bars /
entertainment facilities, I think Headington is about to miss quite a trick" is
bang on! There is a massive hole for what is needed in that particular leisure
/ entertainment considering, as you point out, the very high number of students
here - and do remember everyone there are large numbers of older students at
Brookes, we are not just takling about 18-20 year olds.
[Lazy Gamer may have arrived at just the right time]
Keep the wish list going please everyone, this was not just an idle question
but a possible business venture...
The Grocer/Butcher/Fishmonger suggestions were bound to be popular, we all
loved those smaller more personal shops - sadly times have moved on and they
just can not survive these days [proven by the lack of them].
There is however a way this might work, does anyone here ever go over to the
lovely Emerald Isle? Those shops in the smaller villages and towns that are the
Grocer/Butcher/Fishmonger and sell other usual every day items, papers, even
the lottery - and at the back they have a bar. Now I am in no way suggesting
the bar part of this successful formula, but stick a good coffee shop with free
wi-fi at the back of the shop, with easy access for disabled people, prams...
well you see where I am going I guess - and personally that most definitely IS
a business investment I personally would make in Headington.
Anyway thanks all for the interesting ideas and views, keep them coming :)
Mario's or La Cucina would be excellent in Headington but you know we can't
mess with the local plan can we!
mess with the local plan can we!
It was the people of Headington who wanted its shopping centre protected by the
Local Plan. I don't remember a single dissenting voice at the time. All the
best retail shops were then being grabbed by estate agents as much as by coffee
shops.
Here is the present Local Plan 2001–2016 (covering whole of Oxford, not just
Headington):
http://www.oxford.gov.uk/PageRender/decP/Oxford_Local_Plan_occw.htm
The problem now seems to be that there is a divide between people who live near
the centre of Headington and want to be able to do all their shopping there,
and those who are visitors and want cafés. I personally do not understand why
we need more coffee shops (I would have thought six proper coffee shops and at
least four other places where you can get coffee was more than enough); and the
existing restaurants never seem full. We might need better, but do we really
need more?
There will presumably be a chance to think about the plan again in about 2015.
Local Plan. I don't remember a single dissenting voice at the time. All the
best retail shops were then being grabbed by estate agents as much as by coffee
shops.
Here is the present Local Plan 2001–2016 (covering whole of Oxford, not just
Headington):
http://www.oxford.gov.uk/PageRender/decP/Oxford_Local_Plan_occw.htm
The problem now seems to be that there is a divide between people who live near
the centre of Headington and want to be able to do all their shopping there,
and those who are visitors and want cafés. I personally do not understand why
we need more coffee shops (I would have thought six proper coffee shops and at
least four other places where you can get coffee was more than enough); and the
existing restaurants never seem full. We might need better, but do we really
need more?
There will presumably be a chance to think about the plan again in about 2015.
I think you hit the nail on the head with "local plan 2001-2015" Stephanie....
It's already 11 years out of date, not to mention the fact it was probably
written well before 2001....
And Tony, don't be afraid to mention the words "bar" or "alcohol". The market
may well have slowed down in these areas thanks to the Supermarkets pricing of
alcohol, but there's still a need. It's criminal that Brookes isn't investing
in such facilities for students. Indeed it is my understanding that Brookes
Senior Management Team would prefer a "dry" university - or at least, their
actions imply that this is the case.
After all, the university is a business nowadays. Student in, student pays,
student completes degree as quickly as possible, student leaves. You can't
enjoy being a student any more, and with fees being as high as they're about to
become, why would anyone bother?
The fact is, students (and professionals) will still drink and socialise. All
that Brookes are doing is sending them to Cowley and the City, and away from
the purpose-built, safe environments of the facilities on the Headington Hill
and Clive Booth campuses.
In the meantime, and I apologise if this has already been clarified, but what
could the former Cartridge world shop be? I only understand it can't be a
coffee shop. What does planning currently allow on the premises? And does
anyone have any idea on what rent the landlord is asking for?
It's already 11 years out of date, not to mention the fact it was probably
written well before 2001....
And Tony, don't be afraid to mention the words "bar" or "alcohol". The market
may well have slowed down in these areas thanks to the Supermarkets pricing of
alcohol, but there's still a need. It's criminal that Brookes isn't investing
in such facilities for students. Indeed it is my understanding that Brookes
Senior Management Team would prefer a "dry" university - or at least, their
actions imply that this is the case.
After all, the university is a business nowadays. Student in, student pays,
student completes degree as quickly as possible, student leaves. You can't
enjoy being a student any more, and with fees being as high as they're about to
become, why would anyone bother?
The fact is, students (and professionals) will still drink and socialise. All
that Brookes are doing is sending them to Cowley and the City, and away from
the purpose-built, safe environments of the facilities on the Headington Hill
and Clive Booth campuses.
In the meantime, and I apologise if this has already been clarified, but what
could the former Cartridge world shop be? I only understand it can't be a
coffee shop. What does planning currently allow on the premises? And does
anyone have any idea on what rent the landlord is asking for?
Sadly I agree on "It's already 11 years out of date" fully, and that is why
Headington is as it is now. When Headington people say they actually go to
Summertown - well it proves that Summertown has an appeal that Headington does
not, but not for everyone obviously.
In my humble [ahem!] opinion as a business owner and dabbling entrepreneur I
seriously invest in what I previously mentioned, as it would fulfil at least 4
of the most popular "wishes" - and possibly have a nice bar/restaurant in the
evenings instead of the daytime coffee shop at the back [read previous post by
me for full details], sadly the "local plan" makes it not even worth the effort
of considering applying for such a varied "all-in-one" facility. Sad as the
secondary parts of the business - the coffee shop and the evening bar - would
subsidise being able to offer the FRESH Grocery/Butchers/Fishmongers parts of
the business.
I know it sounds unworkable even a mishmash but I have seen it work in many
varied and very different communities. Perhaps, perhaps, if local residents
really do want these fresh foods available again the "plan" might be willing to
reconsider its very restrictive options. That is of course another story!
Keep the ideas coming, and the comments, who knows what may happen later this
year....
Headington is as it is now. When Headington people say they actually go to
Summertown - well it proves that Summertown has an appeal that Headington does
not, but not for everyone obviously.
In my humble [ahem!] opinion as a business owner and dabbling entrepreneur I
seriously invest in what I previously mentioned, as it would fulfil at least 4
of the most popular "wishes" - and possibly have a nice bar/restaurant in the
evenings instead of the daytime coffee shop at the back [read previous post by
me for full details], sadly the "local plan" makes it not even worth the effort
of considering applying for such a varied "all-in-one" facility. Sad as the
secondary parts of the business - the coffee shop and the evening bar - would
subsidise being able to offer the FRESH Grocery/Butchers/Fishmongers parts of
the business.
I know it sounds unworkable even a mishmash but I have seen it work in many
varied and very different communities. Perhaps, perhaps, if local residents
really do want these fresh foods available again the "plan" might be willing to
reconsider its very restrictive options. That is of course another story!
Keep the ideas coming, and the comments, who knows what may happen later this
year....
I'll avoid carping, I'd be interested in how the fishmonger-cum-coffee shop
would work.
I reckon the 5 wards in Headington & Marston have about 33,000 inhabitants. We
don't do too badly for a little centre when Oxford is so close, we've kept our
post office & banks, for example. Looking at the Mary Portas report, I'm not
sure that we're lacking much - except some form of amenity to bring people in.
I'm happy that the Library stays where it is, so it's actually other forms of
activity (such as Lazy Gamer will offer) that we need.
And the student pound might be the thing to go after.
would work.
I reckon the 5 wards in Headington & Marston have about 33,000 inhabitants. We
don't do too badly for a little centre when Oxford is so close, we've kept our
post office & banks, for example. Looking at the Mary Portas report, I'm not
sure that we're lacking much - except some form of amenity to bring people in.
I'm happy that the Library stays where it is, so it's actually other forms of
activity (such as Lazy Gamer will offer) that we need.
And the student pound might be the thing to go after.
Here's a nice sort of idea that I think would do roughly what you're after:
http://www.thornesfoods.co.uk/
Sadly it has just closed down though :(
I'm probably a bit too outspoken and close to the action to comment on Brookes'
loss of social spaces on here. But if you know where my blog is, you'll find a
couple of recent posts on the closure of Morals Bar and the lack of a "Common
Room" culture/institution within Brookes. I just don't think you can
"outsource" this sort of facility to Headington centre any more than you can to
Cowley Rd/City centre, though for people determined to get together off-campus
it seems to me a better location than Cowley Rd.
I also quite like the format of the Jam Factory in Park End St/Hollybush Row -
a nice place to eat, but with art gallery and art-cinema in the package which
keeps them nicely busy from late morning through to quite late in the evening.
Jock
On 15 Mar 2012, at 15:06, Tony Dee wrote:
> Sadly I agree on "It's already 11 years out of date" fully, and that is why
Headington is as it is now. When Headington people say they actually go to
Summertown - well it proves that Summertown has an appeal that Headington does
not, but not for everyone obviously.
>
> In my humble [ahem!] opinion as a business owner and dabbling entrepreneur I
seriously invest in what I previously mentioned, as it would fulfil at least 4
of the most popular "wishes" - and possibly have a nice bar/restaurant in the
evenings instead of the daytime coffee shop at the back [read previous post by
me for full details], sadly the "local plan" makes it not even worth the effort
of considering applying for such a varied "all-in-one" facility. Sad as the
secondary parts of the business - the coffee shop and the evening bar - would
subsidise being able to offer the FRESH Grocery/Butchers/Fishmongers parts of
the business.
>
> I know it sounds unworkable even a mishmash but I have seen it work in many
varied and very different communities. Perhaps, perhaps, if local residents
really do want these fresh foods available again the "plan" might be willing to
reconsider its very restrictive options. That is of course another story!
>
> Keep the ideas coming, and the comments, who knows what may happen later this
year....
> Tony Dee
> [u'Headington', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Tony Dee: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/3Ubv7ZB8YAsb6SURWNirUL
>
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> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/2vDUIJvIK12XuT4hYWHE8M
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http://www.thornesfoods.co.uk/
Sadly it has just closed down though :(
I'm probably a bit too outspoken and close to the action to comment on Brookes'
loss of social spaces on here. But if you know where my blog is, you'll find a
couple of recent posts on the closure of Morals Bar and the lack of a "Common
Room" culture/institution within Brookes. I just don't think you can
"outsource" this sort of facility to Headington centre any more than you can to
Cowley Rd/City centre, though for people determined to get together off-campus
it seems to me a better location than Cowley Rd.
I also quite like the format of the Jam Factory in Park End St/Hollybush Row -
a nice place to eat, but with art gallery and art-cinema in the package which
keeps them nicely busy from late morning through to quite late in the evening.
Jock
On 15 Mar 2012, at 15:06, Tony Dee wrote:
> Sadly I agree on "It's already 11 years out of date" fully, and that is why
Headington is as it is now. When Headington people say they actually go to
Summertown - well it proves that Summertown has an appeal that Headington does
not, but not for everyone obviously.
>
> In my humble [ahem!] opinion as a business owner and dabbling entrepreneur I
seriously invest in what I previously mentioned, as it would fulfil at least 4
of the most popular "wishes" - and possibly have a nice bar/restaurant in the
evenings instead of the daytime coffee shop at the back [read previous post by
me for full details], sadly the "local plan" makes it not even worth the effort
of considering applying for such a varied "all-in-one" facility. Sad as the
secondary parts of the business - the coffee shop and the evening bar - would
subsidise being able to offer the FRESH Grocery/Butchers/Fishmongers parts of
the business.
>
> I know it sounds unworkable even a mishmash but I have seen it work in many
varied and very different communities. Perhaps, perhaps, if local residents
really do want these fresh foods available again the "plan" might be willing to
reconsider its very restrictive options. That is of course another story!
>
> Keep the ideas coming, and the comments, who knows what may happen later this
year....
> Tony Dee
> [u'Headington', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Tony Dee: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/3Ubv7ZB8YAsb6SURWNirUL
>
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Neil asks what is allowed to operate in the Cartridge World premises at the
moment. The answer is here:
http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/changeofuse/
under the "A1 shops" heading, but I will list the possibilities below for
convenience:
Shops
Retail warehouses
Hairdressers
Undertakers
Travel and ticket agencies
Post offices (but not sorting offices)
Pet shops
Sandwich bars
Showrooms
Domestic hire shops
Dry cleaners
Funeral directors
Internet cafés.
You all seem to think we would have wonderful restaurants if we didn't have the
Local Plan, but in fact the estate agents are in a queue out there waiting to
get into Headington.
moment. The answer is here:
http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/changeofuse/
under the "A1 shops" heading, but I will list the possibilities below for
convenience:
Shops
Retail warehouses
Hairdressers
Undertakers
Travel and ticket agencies
Post offices (but not sorting offices)
Pet shops
Sandwich bars
Showrooms
Domestic hire shops
Dry cleaners
Funeral directors
Internet cafés.
You all seem to think we would have wonderful restaurants if we didn't have the
Local Plan, but in fact the estate agents are in a queue out there waiting to
get into Headington.
The one thing Headington (and most of Oxford) is crying out for is a decent Off
Licence!! And why not throw in a decent bar too. Then I'd never have to leave
Headers.
I think 'Sandwich bars' should be removed from the A1 list. Also it would seem
the local plan is out of date. Not least because it is based on an era when it
was a lot easier and cheaper to get into Headington in car - and thusly
attracting high street customers who can't be bothered with rubbish busses.
Licence!! And why not throw in a decent bar too. Then I'd never have to leave
Headers.
I think 'Sandwich bars' should be removed from the A1 list. Also it would seem
the local plan is out of date. Not least because it is based on an era when it
was a lot easier and cheaper to get into Headington in car - and thusly
attracting high street customers who can't be bothered with rubbish busses.
I'm not sure a traditional off-license can survive competing against the
markets. Co-op has a good drinks section, as does Waitrose, and of course
Londis has drinks. If you think about the number of wine shops and off-licenses
that have shut in Oxford in the last few years, you'd have to be either foolish
or a retail genius to try opening a traditional off license.
The whole idea of Internet Cafes is also a bit anachronistic. Computers are so
cheap that you would have to offer something unique - we'll soon see if gaming
is enough to draw customers. Since everyone has their own computers or
smartphones, and many coffee shops offer free WiFi, customers don't really NEED
Internet Cafes these days. A couple of places in town can still pull it off
for the tourists but... well, we've seen how well that Internet cafe has done
on London Road.
My wife pointed out tonight that we actually have a great bunch of shops on
Windmill Road that are attractive and do retail well. There are a few
exceptions (has anyone actually bought any cards from that other, non-Frog
Orange card shop on Windmill Road? How do they survive?) Unfortunately, just
about everything that's actually on London Road isn't as successful, and that's
what people see as they bus or drive through Headington. If we could give them
an attractive selection of shops, and if we could actually tell them where they
can park (but *gasp* they might turn north on Windmill Road!), we can have a
really vibrant shopping area for visitors and locals.
Which reminds me. Someone suggested that we just want this for visitors. I
live in central Headington, and I am one of the voices asking for an
attractive, vibrant environment. The shops should serve both locals and
visitors.
markets. Co-op has a good drinks section, as does Waitrose, and of course
Londis has drinks. If you think about the number of wine shops and off-licenses
that have shut in Oxford in the last few years, you'd have to be either foolish
or a retail genius to try opening a traditional off license.
The whole idea of Internet Cafes is also a bit anachronistic. Computers are so
cheap that you would have to offer something unique - we'll soon see if gaming
is enough to draw customers. Since everyone has their own computers or
smartphones, and many coffee shops offer free WiFi, customers don't really NEED
Internet Cafes these days. A couple of places in town can still pull it off
for the tourists but... well, we've seen how well that Internet cafe has done
on London Road.
My wife pointed out tonight that we actually have a great bunch of shops on
Windmill Road that are attractive and do retail well. There are a few
exceptions (has anyone actually bought any cards from that other, non-Frog
Orange card shop on Windmill Road? How do they survive?) Unfortunately, just
about everything that's actually on London Road isn't as successful, and that's
what people see as they bus or drive through Headington. If we could give them
an attractive selection of shops, and if we could actually tell them where they
can park (but *gasp* they might turn north on Windmill Road!), we can have a
really vibrant shopping area for visitors and locals.
Which reminds me. Someone suggested that we just want this for visitors. I
live in central Headington, and I am one of the voices asking for an
attractive, vibrant environment. The shops should serve both locals and
visitors.
In answer to "fishmonger-cum-coffee shop would work" it is a simple proven
format, though having had a good look at the vacant property it would not be
quite big enough as it is so may not be the right plaice, here's how, and WHY,
it works:
Essentially there are two rooms with a doorway between them, the
fishmongers/butchers/grocers [note all 3] at the front where people walk in,
and the coffee cafe/bar/restaurant in the rear room - after all you do not want
your coffee or beer next to a fishy smell do you (actually fresh wet fish does
not smell fishy, if it does it is going bad).
The shop has two separate chilled glass fronted displays, like in and food
shop, for the fish and meat, and the fresh groceries are displayed against a
wall, similar to the stacked displays in the covered market.
The rear room can be a cafe/snack place serving soft drinks through the day,
coffee included, and could be a bar/restaurant in the evenings - it depends on
how the owner wants to get involved in.
The reason it works, in many parts of the UK, is that customers pass through
the shop for their coffee/tea/snack and chat with friends. People do buy on
impulse and may make a purchase from the shop as well as in the cafe.
Obviously the opening hours of the shop would be decided by the owner and based
on the volume of business. obviously people would not be likely to buy wet fish
at 10pm ;)
That's basically it and gives a local community the three shops they all miss
plus a social meeting place as well. it is not staff intensive and by having
the three different fresh foods and the cafe or whatever was decided one part
of the business can support the other in quieter times thus making it a viable
proposition, not a red herring
The only stumbling blocks would be planning and the necessary licenses, but as
it works elsewhere there is no reason why it would not in Headington.
I hope that rather long explanation helps, I off now for a Friday night out and
hope I don't flounder about on my way back home later...
format, though having had a good look at the vacant property it would not be
quite big enough as it is so may not be the right plaice, here's how, and WHY,
it works:
Essentially there are two rooms with a doorway between them, the
fishmongers/butchers/grocers [note all 3] at the front where people walk in,
and the coffee cafe/bar/restaurant in the rear room - after all you do not want
your coffee or beer next to a fishy smell do you (actually fresh wet fish does
not smell fishy, if it does it is going bad).
The shop has two separate chilled glass fronted displays, like in and food
shop, for the fish and meat, and the fresh groceries are displayed against a
wall, similar to the stacked displays in the covered market.
The rear room can be a cafe/snack place serving soft drinks through the day,
coffee included, and could be a bar/restaurant in the evenings - it depends on
how the owner wants to get involved in.
The reason it works, in many parts of the UK, is that customers pass through
the shop for their coffee/tea/snack and chat with friends. People do buy on
impulse and may make a purchase from the shop as well as in the cafe.
Obviously the opening hours of the shop would be decided by the owner and based
on the volume of business. obviously people would not be likely to buy wet fish
at 10pm ;)
That's basically it and gives a local community the three shops they all miss
plus a social meeting place as well. it is not staff intensive and by having
the three different fresh foods and the cafe or whatever was decided one part
of the business can support the other in quieter times thus making it a viable
proposition, not a red herring
The only stumbling blocks would be planning and the necessary licenses, but as
it works elsewhere there is no reason why it would not in Headington.
I hope that rather long explanation helps, I off now for a Friday night out and
hope I don't flounder about on my way back home later...
I have to believe you when you say it works elsewhere, but I can't understand
how a smallish shop (even if it was a bit bigger than the vacant property in
London Road) could offer a range of fish and meat and groceries that would
attract me away from the Co-op and Waitrose (plus in my case occasional trips
to the Covered Market). Even the lure of a coffee if I walked through to the
back wouldn't do it.
> From: <email obscured>
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
> Date: Sat, 17 Mar 2012 08:09:01 +1300
>
> In answer to "fishmonger-cum-coffee shop would work" it is a simple proven
format, though having had a good look at the vacant property it would not be
quite big enough as it is so may not be the right plaice, here's how, and WHY,
it works:
> Essentially there are two rooms with a doorway between them, the
fishmongers/butchers/grocers [note all 3] at the front where people walk in,
and the coffee cafe/bar/restaurant in the rear room - after all you do not want
your coffee or beer next to a fishy smell do you (actually fresh wet fish does
not smell fishy, if it does it is going bad).
> The shop has two separate chilled glass fronted displays, like in and food
shop, for the fish and meat, and the fresh groceries are displayed against a
wall, similar to the stacked displays in the covered market.
> The rear room can be a cafe/snack place serving soft drinks through the day,
coffee included, and could be a bar/restaurant in the evenings - it depends on
how the owner wants to get involved in.
> The reason it works, in many parts of the UK, is that customers pass through
the shop for their coffee/tea/snack and chat with friends. People do buy on
impulse and may make a purchase from the shop as well as in the cafe.
> Obviously the opening hours of the shop would be decided by the owner and
based on the volume of business. obviously people would not be likely to buy
wet fish at 10pm ;)
> That's basically it and gives a local community the three shops they all miss
plus a social meeting place as well. it is not staff intensive and by having
the three different fresh foods and the cafe or whatever was decided one part
of the business can support the other in quieter times thus making it a viable
proposition, not a red herring
> The only stumbling blocks would be planning and the necessary licenses, but
as it works elsewhere there is no reason why it would not in Headington.
> I hope that rather long explanation helps, I off now for a Friday night out
and hope I don't flounder about on my way back home later...
>
> Tony Dee
> [u'Headington', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Tony Dee: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/3Ubv7ZB8YAsb6SURWNirUL
>
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how a smallish shop (even if it was a bit bigger than the vacant property in
London Road) could offer a range of fish and meat and groceries that would
attract me away from the Co-op and Waitrose (plus in my case occasional trips
to the Covered Market). Even the lure of a coffee if I walked through to the
back wouldn't do it.
> From: <email obscured>
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
> Date: Sat, 17 Mar 2012 08:09:01 +1300
>
> In answer to "fishmonger-cum-coffee shop would work" it is a simple proven
format, though having had a good look at the vacant property it would not be
quite big enough as it is so may not be the right plaice, here's how, and WHY,
it works:
> Essentially there are two rooms with a doorway between them, the
fishmongers/butchers/grocers [note all 3] at the front where people walk in,
and the coffee cafe/bar/restaurant in the rear room - after all you do not want
your coffee or beer next to a fishy smell do you (actually fresh wet fish does
not smell fishy, if it does it is going bad).
> The shop has two separate chilled glass fronted displays, like in and food
shop, for the fish and meat, and the fresh groceries are displayed against a
wall, similar to the stacked displays in the covered market.
> The rear room can be a cafe/snack place serving soft drinks through the day,
coffee included, and could be a bar/restaurant in the evenings - it depends on
how the owner wants to get involved in.
> The reason it works, in many parts of the UK, is that customers pass through
the shop for their coffee/tea/snack and chat with friends. People do buy on
impulse and may make a purchase from the shop as well as in the cafe.
> Obviously the opening hours of the shop would be decided by the owner and
based on the volume of business. obviously people would not be likely to buy
wet fish at 10pm ;)
> That's basically it and gives a local community the three shops they all miss
plus a social meeting place as well. it is not staff intensive and by having
the three different fresh foods and the cafe or whatever was decided one part
of the business can support the other in quieter times thus making it a viable
proposition, not a red herring
> The only stumbling blocks would be planning and the necessary licenses, but
as it works elsewhere there is no reason why it would not in Headington.
> I hope that rather long explanation helps, I off now for a Friday night out
and hope I don't flounder about on my way back home later...
>
> Tony Dee
> [u'Headington', u''], [u'Oxford', u'']
> About Tony Dee: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/3Ubv7ZB8YAsb6SURWNirUL
>
> View full topic, share on Facebook and more:
> http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/topic/7JjySLeRNUfSmravCHVBla
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I think an off licence could easily compete with both Londis and Waitrose.
No one with in even the vaguest interest in wine would by the stuff from Londis
unless they were desperate. And Waitrose's selection is OK. But you have to
queue up in Waitrose to get it.
An actual off-licence selling decent stuff would appeal to the boozers of
taste, of which there are many, in Oxford.
Before it was a Nicholas the off licence in Headington was doing fine. Nicholas
screwed up, they cut their market in Headington by focussing on french only and
then were over priced.
And in answer to Flora how about raising the prices by 150%? Works for Jacob
and Field. You'll get the Waiteburgers crowd in like a shot - forcing cash into
your till.
No one with in even the vaguest interest in wine would by the stuff from Londis
unless they were desperate. And Waitrose's selection is OK. But you have to
queue up in Waitrose to get it.
An actual off-licence selling decent stuff would appeal to the boozers of
taste, of which there are many, in Oxford.
Before it was a Nicholas the off licence in Headington was doing fine. Nicholas
screwed up, they cut their market in Headington by focussing on french only and
then were over priced.
And in answer to Flora how about raising the prices by 150%? Works for Jacob
and Field. You'll get the Waiteburgers crowd in like a shot - forcing cash into
your till.
How can you say Londis don't sell decent wine, l think you should now pay a
visit and see for yourself.
visit and see for yourself.
Actually I don't think an off-licence is viable these days. You have to recall
that changing Headington to Nicholas was a last ditch attempt more or less by
OddBins to restructure to keep the whole group afloat. And it still failed.
There is not a proper chain off-licence remaining in the UK I don't think.
Between them Majestic and the upper end supermarkets have it pretty well sewn
up.
That said, there is a different format that might be posh enough for Headington
and satisfy several others here at the same time...how about:
http://www.summertownwinecafe.co.uk/
Jock
On 16 Mar 2012, at 20:03, Chris Shipton wrote:
> I think an off licence could easily compete with both Londis and Waitrose.
>
> No one with in even the vaguest interest in wine would by the stuff from
Londis unless they were desperate. And Waitrose's selection is OK. But you have
to queue up in Waitrose to get it.
>
> An actual off-licence selling decent stuff would appeal to the boozers of
taste, of which there are many, in Oxford.
>
> Before it was a Nicholas the off licence in Headington was doing fine.
Nicholas screwed up, they cut their market in Headington by focussing on french
only and then were over priced.
>
> And in answer to Flora how about raising the prices by 150%? Works for Jacob
and Field. You'll get the Waiteburgers crowd in like a shot - forcing cash into
your till.
>
>
> Chris Shipton
>
> About Chris Shipton: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/QODJi11Dcp6fuJHFP6WXQ
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that changing Headington to Nicholas was a last ditch attempt more or less by
OddBins to restructure to keep the whole group afloat. And it still failed.
There is not a proper chain off-licence remaining in the UK I don't think.
Between them Majestic and the upper end supermarkets have it pretty well sewn
up.
That said, there is a different format that might be posh enough for Headington
and satisfy several others here at the same time...how about:
http://www.summertownwinecafe.co.uk/
Jock
On 16 Mar 2012, at 20:03, Chris Shipton wrote:
> I think an off licence could easily compete with both Londis and Waitrose.
>
> No one with in even the vaguest interest in wine would by the stuff from
Londis unless they were desperate. And Waitrose's selection is OK. But you have
to queue up in Waitrose to get it.
>
> An actual off-licence selling decent stuff would appeal to the boozers of
taste, of which there are many, in Oxford.
>
> Before it was a Nicholas the off licence in Headington was doing fine.
Nicholas screwed up, they cut their market in Headington by focussing on french
only and then were over priced.
>
> And in answer to Flora how about raising the prices by 150%? Works for Jacob
and Field. You'll get the Waiteburgers crowd in like a shot - forcing cash into
your till.
>
>
> Chris Shipton
>
> About Chris Shipton: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/QODJi11Dcp6fuJHFP6WXQ
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Nicholas screwed itself by over-expanding outside of London, it shut down due
to poor management as much as a high street recession. The off-licence business
model isnt broken, it has as much chance as anything in the harsh conditions of
the high street. As it is I didn't say it should be a chain. In fact I would
open one just to prove the point.. I will have another look at Londis to make
SUNDER happy
to poor management as much as a high street recession. The off-licence business
model isnt broken, it has as much chance as anything in the harsh conditions of
the high street. As it is I didn't say it should be a chain. In fact I would
open one just to prove the point.. I will have another look at Londis to make
SUNDER happy
How about a proper Turkish restaurant like they have in Green Lanes North
London doing food not like the 'Turkish?' restaurant we already have in
Headington or like the Kebab shop we used to have.
London doing food not like the 'Turkish?' restaurant we already have in
Headington or like the Kebab shop we used to have.
Am I too late to ask for a football ground?
andrew
> From: <email obscured>
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
> Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2012 03:15:02 +1300
>
> How about a proper Turkish restaurant like they have in Green Lanes North
London doing food not like the 'Turkish?' restaurant we already have in
Headington or like the Kebab shop we used to have.
> Colin Clarke
>
> About Colin Clarke: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/1egvSwZYi7xWRhRPoiHcyY
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andrew
> From: <email obscured>
> Subject: Re: [Oxford-HM] Costa Coffee
> To: oxford-hm@forums.e-democracy.org
> Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2012 03:15:02 +1300
>
> How about a proper Turkish restaurant like they have in Green Lanes North
London doing food not like the 'Turkish?' restaurant we already have in
Headington or like the Kebab shop we used to have.
> Colin Clarke
>
> About Colin Clarke: http://forums.e-democracy.org/p/1egvSwZYi7xWRhRPoiHcyY
>
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