The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Art deco landmark refreshed and back on the tourist Traill
An Angus landmark once at the centre of an “ice cream war” has been given a new lease of life.
The Traill pavilion at Montrose beach was opened in 1913 following a bequest from entrepreneur brothers John and David Traill.
Intended as a resting place for visitors to the waterfront, Angus Council latterly ran the building as public toilets, until recent budget cuts forced the local authority to put them up for lease.
Local tearoom owner Jane Watson has taken the reins and opened Auntie’s Parlour, which will let visitors spend a penny as well as take tea.
A previous attempt to take on the lease as a commercial business was abandoned after a 600-name petition was lodged with Angus Council.
And Mrs Watson said she has encountered some resistance in setting up the tearoom, but will ensure her facilities are well-run and open every day.
She said: “I’m aiming to make Auntie’s Parlour a homely and comfortable café in a grand setting.”
Last year Henry Pinder, owner of the adjacent amusement arcade, Beach Café and ice cream kiosk, objected to local businessman Dennis Laidlaw’s application for a change of use last year, from public toilets to class 3 business.
At the time he accused the council of reneging on an agreement over exclusive commercial use at the spot, granted in exchange for running the public convenience.
The art deco pavilion was built at a cost of £1,000 and several thousand residents attended its opening.