At last, the taste of the Mediterranean (From Penarth Times)

At last, the taste of the Mediterranean

AN ESPLANADE restaurateur has finally been granted a licence to dine alfresco-style, after the Times highlighted his case.

Peppino Scarico, the owner of the Mediterraneo restaurant on the sea front, celebrated in style with a glass of champagne this week, after discovering the Vale of Glamorgan Council had given him a licence to place tables and chairs on the road outside his premises.

Peppino has been campaigning since last year to change the 'chevron' parking arrangements outside his restaurant.

They came into force when the one-way system was implemented. It meant that car rears were pointing in the direction of the restaurant, as opposed to before, when they were parked side to the pavement.

He explained: "All last summer we had fumes drifting into the restaurant, while other restaurants were able to make the most of an excellent summer.

"At last, we have been given the opportunity to do the same, which is great news for both our customers and staff, who had to put up with exhaust emissions from cars reversing in and out of parking spaces outside our main entrance."

Restaurant manager Carlo Cafaro added: "We would like to thank the Penarth Times for helping us to highlight the problem with the parking arrangements, which was a genuine concern for us.

"We are now looking forward to recreating a real Mediterranean atmosphere outside the restaurant, with flowers and trees surrounding the tables during the day and candlelight in the evening."

A Vale Council spokesman said: "If the one-way system is confirmed, the licence will stay the same, and they will be able to trade outside."