Pallet structure to be replaced with something 'more in keeping with local area'

The owners of an Indian restaurant in the town centre intend to replace the pallet structure they erected without planning permission, and were instructed to remove, with something more permanent and in keeping with the area.

The project was intended as a new avenue for the existing restaurant, Swadesh. The spin-off, to be named Chai Pani, was created by the owner's nephews to enable them to test whether the brand would work.

Chai Pani, which is phrase used by Punjabi speakers when offering a guest a drink in their home, plans to serve traditional hot and cold teas, other beverages and a selection of Indian sweet and savoury snacks in a relaxed environment in the very near future.

The structure was made from used and damaged pallets from Manchester's Smithfield Market.

Grace Unger, a representative for the project on behalf of Swadesh Group, said "The pallets used would have been tipped or incinerated therefore it seemed a good way to help recycle these pallets and try and encourage schemes such as Chai Pani.

"Although not what you would expect to see in Wilmslow, the beauty lies within the architectural creativity and environmental sustainability. The site would be brought to life with industrial style, energy efficient lighting, atrium style roofing and 50s-70s vintage Bollywood music. It is understood that some local residents did not like or misunderstood the design however we believe all design and architecture is subjective. It was very unique and the younger generation around South Manchester and Cheshire felt it was quirky and cool.

"It was surprising to receive negative comments regarding the appearance of the structure before its completion. It was a very unique design which was encouraging the recycling of waste materials. The original plan was to use redundant shipping containers however it was decided this would be too raw and industrial for Wilmslow Village. We are now working with a local architect and hope to put a new scheme in place which we hope will be welcomed by the local authority and residents. Similar structures to the pallet design have been more welcomed in Spinningfields, Northern Quarter and parts of London.

Grace continued "Private investors in the brand did not want to go live with the project when there was disapproval from the local community and authority, so they instructed to dismantle the structure as they did not want the brand to be tarnished before even pouring its first cup of tea.

"The investors who are based in international waters, saw Wilmslow as a great location and affluent area to test the brand as their intention is to open Chai Pani around the UAE."

The intention was for the structure to be in Wilmslow temporarily over the summer and then shipped to AbuDhabi in September. Instead, it will be packaged this week and construction in the earmarked beach location will begin earlier than planned.

Going forward, the owners say they will liaise with local residents and authorities "to resolve and rectify any misunderstandings about this proposed summer venture". 

Grace added "The plan is now to create a more permanent structure (instead of the shack style pop up) which should be welcomed and more in keeping with the local area. The intention was never to offend or annoy anyone but instead create a unique community space.

The design of the permanent structure is yet to be finalised but the company hopes to be able to use recycled materials.