New Borrowash bistro owners move to reassure residents over disturbance concerns

The owners of a new Derbyshire bistro have sought to reassure apprehensive residents that it will not be a disruptive late-night venue ahead of their full opening in October.

Self-professed local boys, Derby County midfielder Ben Osborn, who lives in Quarndon, and Harry Steare, who lives in Borrowash, have launched their second venue in the village – the El Camino Bar - on the corner of Elm Street and Victoria Avenue in a former carpet shop, which sits just 50 metres away from the pair’s other venue, the Lonely Boy bar, which opened in May 2023.

Erewash Borough Council planners had urged councillors to reject the planned bistro/cafe in June due to the perceived view that it would be an inappropriate use of a building surrounded by housing.

A total of 26 residents had objected to the scheme due to fears of “significant harm” from smells, noise and traffic.

Councillors went against these concerns and approved the new venue, following reassurance about it not being a late-night establishment and in a bid to support a new local business.

Mr Steare told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that local concern over the venue has now reduced, saying: “We are delighted that the Erewash planning committee decided to vote for the change of use to a restaurant and  bar. 

“It was refreshing to hear that they valued growth, employability and community rather than risk having another empty, decaying property situated on the high street.

“We listened to the neighbours concerns and we want to reassure locals that this is not going to be a late night establishment. 

“Our vision is to create a warm, welcoming bistro that serves fresh food and coffee, provides a space for people to meet, work and socialise. 

“We hope to add something new to Borrowash, especially as the village has lost several pubs in recent years. We hope to create up to 12 new jobs too.

“The support we have received has been immense and we really hope people can see this for what it truly is; a positive investment in the village, from two people who live locally, care deeply and want to build something not just Borrowash, but Derby can be proud of.

“We have already acquired an unbelievable team of people to help with this venture, and we truly believe that we can build something special. We hope to open the doors officially in October.”

Both Lonely Boy and El Camino are references to American band The Black Keys, with the Lonely Boy bar having a music theme and focusing on 60s and 70s rock classics, Northern soul and contemporary indie tracks.