More to play for at Tickety-Boo

Ottery St Mary coffee shop and play kingdom Tickety-Boo is hoping to add an additional play area and improved access to the popular play kingdom.

The venture has proved such as success since it opened in August that owner and entrepreneur Stuart Phillips is planning to extend into the back area of the building.

He said: “We’ve been astonished by the reaction to the business and the number of customers regularly visiting Tickety-Boo to enjoy food and drink, and bring children to use the play kingdom.

“It has meant a rethink in terms of facilities and access. Opening up the rear of the building means that the play area can be accessed from Hind Street with no stairs to negotiate, which will be better for parents with buggies and wheelchair users. It will also facilitate access to the disabled toilet.”

The extra play area will feature an exciting new pirate ship and ball pit, and plans also include the addition of substantially more seating so parents can relax while their children play.

At the same time, Mr Phillips proposes to build three one-bedroom starter flats upstairs at the site.

“Ottery is lacking in affordable homes for younger people – even with all the new building going on in and around the town.

“These flats will provide modern accommodation that is reasonably priced, enabling young people to get their feet on the first rung of the housing ladder.”

Planning permission is currently being sought for both projects, and, if granted, the work will commence as soon as possible. “If the project goes ahead there will be some disturbance to our neighbours, but we will work hard as always to ensure the minimum of disruption,” added Stuart.