Council / Premises licence approved for bird observatory as ‘new chapter’ unfolds in Fair Isle
THERE is a “new chapter” unfolding in Fair Isle following the arrival of the new bird observatory and a replacement ferry expected next year, a Shetland South councillor has said.
Bryan Peterson hailed the bird observatory when Shetland’s licensing board approved a permanent premises licence for selling alcohol in the building during a meeting this morning (Wednesday).
The licence is for on sales between 12pm and 11pm seven days a week, with off sales 10am to 10pm.
The new observatory, which offers accommodation to visitors, opened earlier this year after the previous building was destroyed by fire in 2019.
Speaking at Wednesday’s meeting, Peterson – whose ward includes Fair Isle – said he was “delighted” to see the new observatory open.
He described the fire as a traumatic event “emotionally and economically” for Fair Isle.
Peterson added that he had stayed at the previous observatory, which was well managed and a “hub” for the community and visitors.
He said the new one opening is a “fantastic milestone in the next chapter of Fair Isle”.
It comes as a replacement for the Good Shepherd ferry, part funded by the UK Government, is set to be delivered in 2026.
Meanwhile councillors also approved a premises licence for French restaurant C’est la Vie on Lerwick’s Commercial Street.
On sales is for 11am to 11pm seven days a week, with off sales 11am to 10pm over the same days.
The restaurant had in the past applied for repeated occasional licences, which only cover a short period of time.
Owner Didier Piquer wrote to the board that the restaurant has a maximum of “20+ customers at the same time, in a cosy and secluded place” – which he said is the “exact opposite” of a crowded pub or bar.
He added that wines the restaurant has on offer have been carefully selected to pair with dishes.
“Their prices are naturally a big help in preventing any kind of disorder or nuisance and in improving public health on a small scale,” Piquer added.
Councillors also approved an application from the Brae Co-op to vary its licence to allow it to sell alcohol in home deliveries.
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