PLANS are proposed to convert a bistro and bar in Crantock into holiday accommodation after the business became unviable.

Tony and Nina Eyles have submitted a change of use planning application to turn the C-Bay Bar & Bistro on West Pentire Road into a four-bedroom holiday apartment.

They said a challenge in operational costs and a “noticeable” decline in footfall and visitor numbers, have resulted in the business shutting down on Tuesday, September 30 as it is “no longer viable to carry on trading in the “current format.”

Lisa Scolley Consultancy, on behalf of the applicant, said recent increases in both national minimum wage and employer national insurance contributions have meant that wage costs have risen by another 10 per cent in 2025, which combined with ever increasing food costs and a “volatile” energy market, have had a detrimental impact on the business.

It added Tony and Nina Eyles have an opportunity to utilise the existing space to diversify the business by adding to the high-quality holiday accommodation that is already provided on site, which has “proven to be consistently economically viable.”

Lisa Scolley Consultancy in the planning statement said: “The proposed development comprises the change of use of an existing bar/bistro to form a self-contained four-bedroom unit of holiday accommodation which will be added to the applicants’ existing range of holiday accommodation at the site known collectively as Crantock Bay Holiday Apartments. There is only one other four-bed holiday unit within the wider site, and therefore the proposed accommodation would be suitable for larger families.

“C-Bay Bar and Bistro was opened by the applicants at the same time that the former Crantock Bay Hotel was redeveloped into holiday apartments, approximately 15 years ago. For eight years the combined business of the apartments and bistro was profitable, and the bistro was expanded, and a beauty spa with a sun terrace was added. Food & beverage is a notoriously difficult business to consistently make a profit, however the applicants have always taken a holistic view, accepting that as long as the overall business was profitable, then the food outlet would continue.

“The applicants diversified the business in early 2025, with consent being granted for the change of use of the beauty spa to additional holiday accommodation. Following this, the applicants focused on trying to make efficiencies within C-Bay during the 2025 season with a streamlined menu, reduced number of chefs, speciality nights, a ‘locals’ discount card and accommodating functions such as weddings, however these measures have not been sufficient.

“The proposals comprise the change of use of an existing financially unviable bar and bistro to an alternate commercial use, with the provision of holiday accommodation at the site having proven to be more economically sustainable. The applicants have endeavoured, without success, to find new and innovative ways to keep the bistro running alongside the other elements of the business.

“While it is very unfortunate to have to close this element of the business, the proposals would contribute to the continued employment of local people involved in the management and maintenance of the holiday apartments and would provide an additional asset to the existing business through the provision of additional self-contained holiday accommodation of a type that is currently not available at the site.

“All guests to the property would be encouraged to support other local businesses within the area including bars, and eateries, pubs and restaurants.”

The C-Bay will be closing “regardless of the planning outcome.” Staff and customers have been notified of the closure.

Tony and Nina Eyles, in a statement on the C-Bay website, said: “It is with a heavy heart that we must share that C-Bay Bar & Bistro will be closing its doors for the final time on September 30.

“We have always worked hard to offer the warm, welcoming experience that our guests have come to know and love. However, the challenge of rising operational costs that the whole hospitality industry currently faces, whilst experiencing a noticeable decline in footfall and visitor numbers, means it is no longer viable to carry on trading in our current format

“We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported us over the years. Our loyal customers, dedicated staff, suppliers, and the wider community. Each of you has played a part in making C-Bay not just a business, but a truly special place. We've cherished every moment spent with you.

“To our incredible team: thank you for your passion, your hard work, and your dedication. You have been the heart and soul of C-Bay, and we couldn't have asked for a better group of people with whom to share this journey.

“As we prepare to close, we invite you to visit us over the next couple of weeks to enjoy your favourite dishes, share stories, and say farewell. We hope to celebrate the good times with as many of you as possible before we close.”