The much-anticipated Jacob’s Fish and Chips Shop officially opened its doors in March 2024, bringing a delightful dining and takeway experience to the community of Cefn Fforest.
Supported by a £30,000 grant from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and facilitated by Caerphilly County Borough Council, the restaurant is dedicated to the memory of owner Ross Turner’s late son, Jacob.
The location was previously an unused building in a state of disrepair, but with grant support, it has been transformed into a welcoming restaurant equipped with state-of-the-art fryers, including five separate fryers for fish, gluten-free options, meat, and beef dripping, ensuring that high standards of quality are maintained. The grant also funded significant renovations, including decoration, window installations, access points, and signage to make the venue both accessible and appealing.
Jacob’s Fish and Chips is not just about great food; it reflects a strong commitment to the community. Positioned strategically between schools, nursing homes, and a convenience store, the restaurant serves over 200 to 300 covers per day on average, catering to a diverse clientele. With a menu featuring a variety of options, Jacob’s Fish and Chips aims to provide affordable dining while utilising local suppliers whenever possible.
Ross Turner, a former police constable in Blackwood, alongside his business partner Jamie Harris, have expressed gratitude towards the council for their unwavering support. “This could not have happened without the council’s assistance,” he stated. “Our focus is on community benefits while keeping prices down and quality up.”
Adam Sadler, Principal Business Development Officer, commented, “Jacob’s Fish and Chips has already become a welcome addition to the community of Cefn Fforest. Through the CCBC business team’s tireless support, we will continue to help Ross realise the full potential of his business as he builds on his success going forward.”
In addition to dine-in services, Jacob’s Fish and Chips has partnered with Blackwood Eats to offer a delivery service, making it even more convenient for locals to enjoy their favourite dishes from the comfort of their homes. The restaurant currently employs 6 to 7 full-time staff, along with 14 part-time staff, depending on availability, with future plans to expand the preparation area and eventually open another location.
