At the top of the rue de l’Eglise de Vaucelles, in Caen, the reopening of the terraces has brought a small intersection back to life. On the one hand, the El Camino bar – Chez Momo et Pek. On the other, the religious building, with the steps popular with coffee regulars. “200 to 300 people went to sit on it for the recovery”, testifies Morgan, one of the partners of the establishment, with his sidekick Pierre-Emmanuel.
After “four crazy days”, the managers took a step back and made a strong decision: to close their doors again. So it’s not for lack of people. But the influx and habits of customers do not fit well with the conditions of reopening. With its six to eight tables arranged on a terrace impossible to expand since it quickly overlooks a street, the bar was quickly overwhelmed.
“We have 90% regulars,” explains Morgan. Here, everyone knows each other and goes from table to table. Everyone is on their feet. However, the rule stipulates that it is necessary to consume seated, with a maximum of six. In addition, there is a prefectural decree which prohibits the consumption of alcohol on public roads. Customers peacefully enjoying their drink on the steps of the church are therefore liable to a fine of 135 euros, and El Camino to penalties up to and including administrative closure.
“We don’t want to be outlawed”
“We anticipate the visit of police patrols,” says Momo. We do not want to be the gendarmes, nor to be outlawed. We cannot work serenely. The observation of these four days of recovery led the associates to lower the curtain, “without having a date of reopening”. June 9? “We would recover seats indoors but the weather will undoubtedly be fine. People will go outside and the problem will be the same ”.
To operate more quietly, El Camino would need a relaxation of the regulations, in particular on “behavior” on the terrace. “At least people can eat while standing, and we don’t have to refuse people. “
No reopening date yet
In the immediate future, there is no question of taking the risk of exposing yourself to an administrative sanction which, in the event of re-containment, could have consequences on the aid. What about the financial infusions of the State in relation to such a decision to close? ” It is unclear. The aid went until May 19. Then we declared our number on opening days. Afterwards, we don’t really know ”.
The managers have the cash to cash “for a few days or a few weeks” this morally heavy choice. The many messages of support will give them balm in their hearts, while waiting for an evolution of the measures to allow a more lasting reunion with the regulars. They were faithful to the appointment on May 19 and are eager to drink to the health of their Camino, on the steps of the church, or not.
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