The popular Craft Diner in Dunkeld is one step closer to expanding its footprint after Perth and Kinross Council planners recommended approval for the project. The proposed expansion would significantly increase the size of the current burger shack, allowing owner and chef Orkun Cevik to enhance the dining experience and potentially create new jobs. From Small Shack to Bigger Bites
Currently operating within a compact 10ft by 8ft space, the Craft Diner has quickly become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. The planned expansion would stretch the diner to a much more spacious 10ft by 30ft. This would not only provide Orkun with room to upgrade his cooking facilities but also allow for a larger decking area, increased customer cover, and the addition of three or four tables. This transformation aims to accommodate the growing demand and offer a more comfortable environment for diners, regardless of the weather. The expansion is seen as a positive development, particularly given the challenging economic climate for businesses in the area. It is anticipated that the expansion could lead to the creation of at least two new job opportunities within the community. Community Voices Heard
The proposal has ignited considerable discussion within Dunkeld, generating a mix of support and opposition. An impressive 66 letters of support were submitted, primarily from loyal customers and local food suppliers who have directly benefited from the Craft Diner’s success. They emphasized the positive economic impact of the business and its contribution to the vibrancy of Dunkeld. Arguments in favor highlighted the diner’s popularity, the creation of new jobs, and the overall boost it has given to Dunkeld’s food scene. These voices cited the need for diverse culinary offerings in the town and praised Orkun’s commitment to local produce and businesses. Conversely, 12 objections were raised, mainly citing concerns about the expansion’s potential impact on the aesthetic character of Dunkeld’s Conservation Area and questioning the necessity for another food outlet in a town they feel is already well-served. Addressing these concerns, council planners concluded that the proposed expansion is compatible with the area’s regulations and character. They acknowledged the existing range of dining options in Dunkeld but stressed the importance of consumer choice, noting that the increased dining capacity and improved facilities are likely to be well-received by many residents, rather than impacting the wider community of Dunkeld and its surrounding areas. Supporters also cited the financial support that local suppliers receive from The Craft Diner, recognizing the significance of such relationships, particularly in challenging economic times. The expansion project promises to benefit not just Orkun and his employees but also his network of local suppliers who have welcomed the opportunity to partner with a successful and thriving establishment.
Since opening in 2021, Orkun, who previously worked at the prestigious Dunkeld House Hotel, has been known for his outspoken nature, particularly when addressing negative online reviews and challenging issues like racist abuse directed at his business. In December, he took to social media to criticize some local opposition to his expansion project. He has since expressed his gratitude for the support shown by his loyal customers. The future of the Craft Diner will be discussed during the upcoming planning and place-making committee meeting on Wednesday, April 16. This meeting, open to the public for online viewing, will provide a platform for councillors to further deliberate on the proposal and ultimately decide the diner’s fate.
Currently operating within a compact 10ft by 8ft space, the Craft Diner has quickly become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. The planned expansion would stretch the diner to a much more spacious 10ft by 30ft. This would not only provide Orkun with room to upgrade his cooking facilities but also allow for a larger decking area, increased customer cover, and the addition of three or four tables. This transformation aims to accommodate the growing demand and offer a more comfortable environment for diners, regardless of the weather. The expansion is seen as a positive development, particularly given the challenging economic climate for businesses in the area. It is anticipated that the expansion could lead to the creation of at least two new job opportunities within the community. Community Voices Heard
The proposal has ignited considerable discussion within Dunkeld, generating a mix of support and opposition. An impressive 66 letters of support were submitted, primarily from loyal customers and local food suppliers who have directly benefited from the Craft Diner’s success. They emphasized the positive economic impact of the business and its contribution to the vibrancy of Dunkeld. Arguments in favor highlighted the diner’s popularity, the creation of new jobs, and the overall boost it has given to Dunkeld’s food scene. These voices cited the need for diverse culinary offerings in the town and praised Orkun’s commitment to local produce and businesses. Conversely, 12 objections were raised, mainly citing concerns about the expansion’s potential impact on the aesthetic character of Dunkeld’s Conservation Area and questioning the necessity for another food outlet in a town they feel is already well-served. Addressing these concerns, council planners concluded that the proposed expansion is compatible with the area’s regulations and character. They acknowledged the existing range of dining options in Dunkeld but stressed the importance of consumer choice, noting that the increased dining capacity and improved facilities are likely to be well-received by many residents, rather than impacting the wider community of Dunkeld and its surrounding areas. Supporters also cited the financial support that local suppliers receive from The Craft Diner, recognizing the significance of such relationships, particularly in challenging economic times. The expansion project promises to benefit not just Orkun and his employees but also his network of local suppliers who have welcomed the opportunity to partner with a successful and thriving establishment.
Since opening in 2021, Orkun, who previously worked at the prestigious Dunkeld House Hotel, has been known for his outspoken nature, particularly when addressing negative online reviews and challenging issues like racist abuse directed at his business. In December, he took to social media to criticize some local opposition to his expansion project. He has since expressed his gratitude for the support shown by his loyal customers. The future of the Craft Diner will be discussed during the upcoming planning and place-making committee meeting on Wednesday, April 16. This meeting, open to the public for online viewing, will provide a platform for councillors to further deliberate on the proposal and ultimately decide the diner’s fate.