Petition launched to save Ramelton food business from closure

A petition has been launched to save a Ramelton food van from closure.

‘Save Johnny's Award-Winning Ranch in Ramelton’ has been launched on Change.org by Ramelton native Mary Boyce.

It comes as the owner of Johnny’s Ranch, Johnny Patterson, received an enforcement letter from the Planning Enforcement Unit of Donegal County Council.

The letter, shared to social media, refers to the food van as an “unauthorised development at Gambles Square, Ramelton.”

The letter enclosed an Urgent Enforcement Notice by way of service in accordance with Section 250 of the Planning and Development Act 2000.

Johnny Patterson has been running Johnny's Ranch for seven years.

He shared: “Help save Johnny’s Ranch from closure by one Ramelton Resident and Donegal County Council aiming to close us down. Currently we are fighting two separate battles with an allegation grounded on purported complaint by the same resident on Gamble Square and Donegal County Council and a separate enforcement order issued by Donegal County Council aiming to close us down. This is on top of fighting with increased cost of supply ingredients, etc., just to continue to bring outstanding quality that you have come to expect.

“Media reports have already highlighted the acts of vandalism Johnny’s Ranch has endured and are being investigated by gardaí. On top of that, the level of intimidation and harassment and continual filming and photographing over seven years has been both mentally and physically exhausting to one's health. We need your support. Power of the people is more than the people in power.”

The petition describes Johnny’s Ranch as a “cornerstone” of the community.

“The decision to close Johnny's Ranch seems to be based on the perspectives of only a few individuals, disregarding the overwhelming benefit Johnny's business brings to our town,” it reads. “It's time to unite and show what Ramelton has always been - a tight-knit community that supports its own, especially when unjustly challenged.

“We urge the Donegal County Council to reconsider this decision and recognize the value Johnny’s Ranch brings to our community. Let us come together to keep the tradition, spirit, and service that Johnny provides alive. Stand with us in solidarity for Johnny's Ranch, for Ramelton, and for the community spirit that thrives with businesses like his.

“Please sign this petition to prevent the closure of Johnny's Ranch and protect the invaluable service he provides, ensuring the vibrancy and heart of Ramelton remains strong.”