Camden New Journal - by CHARLOTTE CHAMBERS Published: 27 September 2007
Toast – one of the latest businesses to close
‘Hampstead is dead’ – traders
IT’S one of the most desirable places to live in London but Hampstead is rapidly losing its sparkle, according to one restaurateur whose business closed at the start of September.
The director of Toast – once one of glitziest restaurants in the area whose diners included Thierry Henry, Jerry Springer and Emma Bunton – declared: “Hampstead is dead.”
The businessman, who did not want to be named, warned anyone thinking of opening a bar or restaurant in the NW3 area: “Don’t bother. That’s the bottom line.”
He said circumstances ultimately conspired against him, including difficulties in parking and the smoking ban, as well as a vocal group of well-organised residents who have opposed every late application in Hampstead since licensing laws changed two years ago. “The residents might be happy – they’ve achieved their purpose, but that has repercussions,” the director said. “People now aren’t coming. The High Street has become more and more generic. I think it’s sad because the majority of people view Hampstead as ‘what’s the point in going there?’ It’s not bad for the residents, but for those who like it and think it’s a pretty place, yes, it’s sad.”
He also blamed the council for bowing to pressure from residents, citing the end of Kenwood concerts as an example of how he thought they have become too powerful.
Last year, five pubs in the area – Mojama, Bar68, Heath Street, Gertie Brown and Bedlam – all shut, while Oddbins wine shop in Hampstead High Street also recently closed.
But some say their businesses are thriving.
Jasper Cuppaidge, owner of The Horseshoe in Heath Street, said business “couldn’t be better”. He said: “Everyone says Hampstead is very troublesome, but we love it, it’s fabulous.”
He denied there was a need for late licences saying: “Hampstead is not a late-night destination and it never will be.”
Chris Martin, owner of The TabbyCat Lounge in Heath Street, said he was happy in Hampstead, even if it was a labour of love. He said: “You have to have a passion for Hampstead to open here. It is a struggle and it’s probably harder than anywhere else, but we just love the area.”
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