by Sam Hawcroft
The new microbusiness kiosks in Withernsea’s Valley Gardens are beginning to open, with all six expected to be trading by this weekend.
Whitehall Estate Tea Rooms, run by Whitehall Estate of Winestead, was the first to open on Saturday and Sunday.
Other kiosks are now opening or being fitted out, with the full line-up including Slate Whilst You Wait, Withernsea Tots and Tides, Sixth Gear, Chewtopia and Sweet Escapes.
The kiosks have been installed as part of a long-running project driven by Withernsea Town Council to bring a fresh and varied offer to Valley Gardens and provide new opportunities for small businesses.
Jayne Moxon, of Withernsea Town Council, who helped lead the project while town clerk, said the selection process had been carefully considered.
She said: “The process for the applications was really rigid, in as much as what kind of offer the applicants had, and it was very carefully considered against what is already available in town.
“I think you’ll find you can’t get any of this in the high street – not of this sort of quality.”
She said the kiosks brought “a different offering altogether” and something fresh for the town, adding that the project had taken longer than originally expected because of matters outside the council’s control.
Kev Smith, who runs Slate Whilst You Wait, said the new kiosk felt like a fitting home for his business.
Kev, who is from Hull, has been visiting Withernsea since childhood.
He said: “I’ve done a full circle because I’ve been coming to Withernsea since I was about three years old. I used to play mini golf exactly where I’m sitting right now!
“It’s always felt like home. Withernsea gets a bad rap, but it’s such a nice place.”
Kev began engraving by hand before moving on to CNC and laser work. His products include engraved coasters, keyrings and personalised items, including quirky pieces featuring Spotify codes.
Tim Holden, of Sixth Gear, said his business would offer motorbike-themed clothing, T-shirts and men’s clothing, while also appealing to people beyond the biking community.
Tim, who lives in Withernsea, said Sixth Gear was a brand-new venture and the kiosk had given him the right opportunity to launch it.
He said: “Sixth Gear is aimed at the biker crowd, but not just bikers. There will be T-shirts, men’s clothing and other items that will appeal to people who like that style.
“I found out about the kiosks at the end of last summer and applied straight away, so I’m really pleased to be here and looking forward to opening the doors.”
Sarah Chisholm, of Chewtopia Natural Treats, said her kiosk would sell natural dog treats, high-end dog and cat food, British-made dog beds and other pet products.
Sarah previously ran a market stall but said the physical demands of setting up and packing away had become difficult because she has fibromyalgia and is also a carer for her father.
She said: “All my products are made either in the UK or in Europe. There is absolutely no Chinese stuff in here – it’s all natural.”
Sarah said she would initially open from Wednesday to Sunday, with the possibility of extending her hours depending on demand.
The remaining kiosks are expected to be open by Saturday.