Petition to save popular cafe takes off

A petition to save an east Belfast cafe threatened with closure is nearing its 7,500 signature target.

Polish woman Monika Dike opened the Smokey Deli on Grand Parade two years ago but has now been told she must close dues to concerns raised by Belfast City Council.

They include smoke from an outdoor grill and a dispute over whether the cafe, which previously operated as a florist’s, is in a residential zone.

A petition on change.org, started by Pam Kelly reads: “Monika, is the owner of Smokey Deli, a lovely quirky, cafe in East Belfast. She has spent 2 years of applications & requests to Belfast City Council to change its use of business from a florist to a deli/cafe.

Unfortunately the council have continually refused, with the most recent appeal being turned down within ONE Hour of it being submitted!

“They are threatening to close Monika’s business down at the end of next week. There is no other cafe in the vicinity of this neighbourhood, it has fantastic outdoor space, both in front and at the rear of the building, great food & an area for kids to play.

“There is a small team of staff and at a time like this surely the council should be supporting businesses who are doing their best to support the local community, and provide for their families.

“PLEASE HELP SAVE THIS WONDERFUL LOCAL BUSINESS & SHARE THIS PETION NOW before they force it to close. Make the council listen – we need More places like this in our communities, not less!!! ”

By Thurdsay lunchtime almost  5,500 people had signed.

A Belfast City Council spokesperson commented: “As there is an ongoing investigation with respect to these premises, it would be inappropriate for Council to comment at this time. Planning applications are publicly available on the planning portal.”

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