Hahndorf Fish and Chips closing end of January to make way for new tourist accommodation

The entire block – including three stores – will be bulldozed for a tourist accommodation venture that has planning consent.

Hahndorf’s only fish and chips shop will close by the end of January, with its home on the main street bulldozed to make way for a new tourist accommodation centre.

After 13 years, Hahndorf Fish and Chips owner John Standley said it was the right time to retire, but is disappointed he will not be able to sell the store to an interested buyer.

Two other businesses will also be forced to vacate the shopfront at 44 Mount Barker Rd, including Grund’s Gourmet cafe and Saigon Viet Rolls, but it is unclear when construction works are set to begin.

The row of shops at 44 Mount Barker Rd, Hahndorf, will be knocked down to make way for a new tourist accommodation centre. Picture: Google Maps

The property is owned by champion ex-motorcycle racer Mark Fiora, who could not be reached for comment.

Mr Fiora is a four-time SA speedway champion and businessman, formerly the owner of Littlehampton Clay Bricks and Pavers.

According to a development application lodged with PlanSA in September, the site will house “a mixed use development comprising 29 accommodation units”, as well as a reception area, laundry and two shop tenancies.

While plans are still being assessed, Mr Standley, 78, was asked to surrender the lease “a bit over a month ago” and is negotiating compensation with the landowner.

Four-time SA Speedway champion Mark Fiora owns the property at 44 Mount Barker Rd. Picture: AAP / Mike Burton

“I think there will be quite a few people disappointed by this … depending on the time of year, 50 to 80 per cent of our business is actually local,” he said.

“I’ll just keep myself fit and busy, but I’m getting on in years and I don’t think I can start up any new enterprises.”

He said the secret to a good fish and chips meal was simple – “quality product” and regularly changing the oil vats.

Hahndorf is one of South Australia’s most popular tourism spots, attracting more than a million visitors every year to its leafy surrounds and heritage character.

Planning consultant for the new development, John Ashcroft of firm Beyond Ink, did not wish to make comment.