LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

from Dartford Living May 2023

Travel SpotlightTanzania & Zanzibar

By Jane Stevenson

BACK IN THE ‘HOOD

I read with a sense of impending doom friends’ posts regarding the sale of farmland in the Hawley area. Those still living there have seen so much of their community go: the downward spiral and closure of the local pubs; the sale of the garden centre and now the farmland. Ominously, I heard planning permission has been sought for one area of the fields. I have no idea of knowing how true this is. I always understood the area was for arable use only, and I hope it remains so.

Outer Dartford, the smaller semi-rural areas have been left out of the Master Plan for the town. Transport services eroded; local amenities stopped. It would be such a shame if these quieter, greener areas became just another annexe of Greater London – which given the introduction of the impending ULEZ charge I fear is the plan for Dartford.

We need our green spaces. Where else can we walk our dogs, work our allotments, or simply admire the open spaces we have. Many of you rediscovered country paths and walks by our river during the pandemic. It would be detrimental to people, if those places became yet further housing areas. I really hope for the sake of those living outside the town, someone, somewhere sees sense.

A Tale Of Two Cafes

When I lived in Dartford I enjoyed taking time out for a coffee and cake at some of the many outlets available. My chosen place was Esquire’s. Other Half and I were always sure of a warm welcome from the owner and staff, service with a smile, and good coffee.

No one else ever spoke to us. Few looked up from their phones, tablets, or books to offer a greeting. We accepted it and kept to our own little bubble. It was quite an insular experience. When we moved, I was prepared for the same level of tolerance rather than involvement. Many years ago I lived in south London, where a similar culture existed. People didn’t interact. Spending the latter part of 2022 and a winter here has opened my eyes to what is a new experience for me.

We spend a great deal of time at a place called The Boathouse, a café/bar set right on the beach near our home. It is run by two sisters and their family. In high summer, the place is heaving with holidaymakers, walkers and dogs! Towards the end of the season, trade is slower. During the winter only a few tourists, the hardy dog walkers and the local people make the journey to this off the track place.

It transforms from a busy thriving business to a small but vibrant meeting place. Any time we walk in we are guaranteed to see people we know, lunching, grabbing a coffee or tea and a snack. Everyone is made to feel welcome. The cafe becomes a community hub out of season; somewhere you can take the dog (who will receive a sausage or biscuit pot) meet up with friends and warm up by the log burner. The infectious giggling from one of the sisters, is guaranteed to cheer anyone up. Behind the scenes, the other sister produces excellent meals, filling and done to your own liking. Nothing is too much trouble for them. The food is excellent and has the views to match. I enjoy sitting in the place, staring out over the sea to the New Forest. It’s calming.

People get involved with each other. We are a disparate group of customers; retired folk, local families, animal lovers, bikers, hardy walkers and ‘newbies’ – those who have chosen to relocate to this quiet little island. Conversation is varied, loud and open to all. People listen to each other and try to help. Leaflets about events are shared; suggestions and possible solutions given to life’s hiccups. News and views are debated. Opinions shared. Everyone is valued.

To be part of such a community is reassuring and comforting, especially as we left family on the mainland to move to an area we loved but knew few people.

The Boathouse offers not only somewhere to sit quietly and watch the peaceful rhythm of the waves but gives life and vibrance to a local community. Best of both worlds, eh?

Stay safe people

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