UK property developer Godwin Developments has announced that Loungers, a nationwide operator of all day café-bars and restaurants, has signed a lease for the biggest unit at its new roadside retail development, Ram Jam Services.
Fronting the busy northbound section of the A1 in Rutland, the restaurant will be operated under the Brightside brand, a recently announced roadside dining concept from Loungers which is being rolled out across the UK. When delivered, the 4,500 sq ft unit will be the first purpose-built Brightside restaurant which will serve c. 41,500 vehicles passing the site daily as well as residents of the local area.
Ram Jam Services is positioned alongside the main arterial route from Peterborough to Grantham, next to an established petrol station, a new bakery and is only 15 minutes away from Rutland Water – one of the largest man-made lakes in Europe. The area and wider county attract nearly 1.9 million visitors every year who favour it for its attractive countryside and outdoor pursuits.
A total of four units have been developed by Godwin at Ram Jam Services, of which three are currently under offer, leaving only one unit comprising 754 sq ft available.
Claudine Tracey, associate director, Commercial Development at Godwin Developments, said: “We are delighted to have secured Loungers’ new Brightside brand for our Ram Jam Services development. The site has historically been a thriving roadside destination and we are really pleased to be breathing new life into it, bringing amenities and consumer choice, attracting passing motorists as well as those who are travelling to and live in the local area.
“We remain very active in the roadside retail market, which is buoyant and growing rapidly. We have already built strong partnerships with all major market players in this space and we will continue to support them in expanding their networks and bringing brands closer to their customers.”
Alex Reilley, founder chairman of Loungers plc, said: “We believe that Brightside will really shake up what has become an uninspiring sector and that there is potential to roll out Brightside across the UK in the coming years. Our expertise in high-quality, great value all-day dining, developed through Lounge and Cosy Club, gives us confidence that Brightside can bring proper hospitality back to roadside dining across the UK.”
Ogle Property and Shakespeare Martineau acted for Godwin Developments on the deal. The remaining unit is being marketed by Ogle Property.
