Wells next the Sea wine bar plans fall flat with locals

But the response from locals in the Norfolk town where Bert Blaize wants to open an upmarket tasting bar appears to be none, never and certainly not here.

The renowned wine connoisseur wants to launch a new venture in Wells-next-the-Sea, which is known as Norfolk's 'Prosecco Ghetto' for its upmarket restaurants and as a destination for the rich and fashionable.

But while corks can be heard popping most weekends in the town, Mr Blaize's bid has been met with distaste from sour locals.

Mr Blaize has gained national attention for his wine expertise which has landed him with features in GQ and Imbibe magazine.

Mr Blaize has even named in the top 50 most influential people in the wine industry by Drinks Business. (Image: Bert Blaize)

The 35-year-old has written a book on the subject, Which Wine When, which is also the name of his company.

He hopes to open an upmarket shop and bar, North Norfolk Cellars, stocked full of rare vintages, bubbles for celebrations and everyday plonk in the former Chandlery next to the quay.

Customers will also be able to enjoy the occasional tasting event and he wants people to enjoy a tipple served from the bar until a closing time of 9.30pm.

Mr Blaize, who runs an online wine merchant and consultancy business, said: "I'm doing this for myself. I want a space to be able to enjoy a nice glass looking onto the sea in such a beautiful place."

The shop is set to open in the Chandlery building in the Quay (Image: Google)

However, his plans have been met with a volley of objections from neighbours, who would rather there was no wine being served so close to their homes.

Eight people have written to North Norfolk District Council, urging councillors to refuse the application.

While the esteemed sommelier may plan for the venue to be a classy affair, one local, Susan Hubbard, worries they will be subjected to "raucous language" from drinkers and fear her young children will be unable to sleep.

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Another Wells resident worried about the harm it could cause to the conservation area.

Richard Turfey said: "It will irrevocably change this historic environment in a detrimental way forever after being protected for so long."

Others worried about the increased traffic it will bring to the area.

Wells is a popular tourist destination in the county, known for scenic views from across its harbour (Image: Chris Bishop)

Most of the objectors are owners of traditional fishing cottages in the locality.

However, while some live in them permanently, several are also advertised as holiday homes.

Wells-next-the-Sea has become known as Norfolk's Prosecco Ghetto due to the small town bubbling with life on summer weekends and during the holidays.

But locals say it can feel rather flat and empty when the well-heeled second homeowners and tourists have left.

Many of the second homes and holiday cottages in Wells are concentrated around the streets near the harbour (Image: Chris Bishop)

The issue of second homes has become a major point of contention within the community, with many worrying the character of the town is being lost and hollowed out by wealthy out-of-towners buying up properties to be used as holiday lets.

It has led to a rebellion of sorts after new policies were implemented through its neighbourhood plan, stipulating any new property must be used as a sole or main residence.

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Staithe Street in Wells on a busy summer's day (Image: Chris Bishop)

Wells is one of several coastal communities that has adopted this approach - characterised as a 'second home ban' - including Heacham, Burnham Market and Blakeney.

But many businesses in these second-home hotspots rely on the trade from tourists and wealthier weekend visitors.

Bert Blaize, a sommelier with Michelin starred experience, is hoping to open a new wine bar and shop in Wells (Image: Bert Blaize)

Mr Blaize, who lives in Holt in north Norfolk, has already got the keys for the property and a refurb is under way ready for a summer opening.

However, the fate of his Wells venture could be derailed if councillors at a licensing committee meeting next week side with the locals.

While locals are not too pleased, there are factors that could work in his favour - none of the 'responsible authorities', Norfolk police, NNDC's licensing experts or the fire service have objected.