Business owner pulls plans for riverside restaurant/bar at Glenhyrst

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A local restaurateur is looking for a new location for his unique eatery after scrapping his plan to locate on the lower level of the Glenhyrst Art Gallery property.

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Grant Schuman had approval from city council to install a temporary restaurant and bar, made from a retrofitted shipping container, on the property, making it the first riverside business of its kind in Brantford.

But Schuman said the approval came with too many restrictions.

“Unfortunately, there were so many added alterations to my original plan, which I had no say in,” Schuman said in a Facebook post. “My whole vision got altered to a point that it became someone else’s plan.

“So, it’s with a heavy heart, and a pulsing migraine, that I must back out of Glenhyrst plan and look elsewhere to bring my vision to reality.”

Last month, city council gave final approval to the restaurant, called Shackbar. But the plan proved to be controversial, with some people, including residents whose homes neighbour the property, objecting to it.

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They cited concerns about alcohol being served, potential for garbage being left on the property and adjacent trail, noise from music and a portable generator used to power the business, the impact on wildlife and increased traffic in the area.

City council’s approval came with a lot of stipulations, including a restriction on the space the business could occupy, hours of operation, volume of music, rules about the use of a generator and lighting.

Councillors also stipulated that following a second violation, the city could shut down the business.

“It’s really difficult to bring an idea you believe in and care so much about to a heated debate that divides so many,” said Schuman. “Intentions were good. Scrutiny was high. The plan was to do something different, fun and cool for people to enjoy.

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“I need to have music. I need to have more licensed space to lounge, bask in the sun, and enjoy a little grass space to play a game or two. I need to not be threatened by people who plan to call in complaints every day. And I can’t be told that if I screw up twice I will be kicked out, especially considering the amount of money it will take to be up and running there on a few-month pilot program.”

The plan was to put the restaurant in place this spring and operate it until fall, when it would be removed. After the season, city staff was to bring a report back to councillors on how it went, with input from the neighbours.

Ana Olson, director of Glenhyrst, said she was disappointed the plan didn’t work out. She told councillors the relationship between the gallery and eatery would have been “mutually beneficial” and attract a new demographic to the gallery.

“We wish Grant the best and know he will find a home for his restaurant somewhere – just not at Glenyrst,” said Olson.

Schuman said the project is “by no means finished.”

“I am still working with the city to find a better spot that works for everyone.”