After substantial investment over the last 12 months, unanticipated delays and additional work may also require further funding before a new restaurant can open on Middle Road, Devonshire.

Staff recruitment for the business has been under way, including training for several job positions. But staffing may now be on hold.

There were two reasons the target opening date of last week Monday was missed by Pinky’s Drive Thru, the latest project of Marico Thomas and Food Hub.

Primary reasons given by the company involve a new on-site pit, and required approvals for the kitchen exhaust fans.

A statement said: “A new underground pit was constructed on-site and although approved by one (government) department, a different department has instructed that we build a tank system instead of a pit system.

“This came as a surprise and the impact may be that the roadworks and pit may need to be excavated.

“But we do recognise that it is important that with our proximity to the Devonshire Marsh, that the business activities are environmentally appropriate.

“With regard to the exhaust fans, additional permissions are required to be obtained and the related processes (applications) for this to occur have begun.

“We were quite surprised by the new developments”, admitted a spokesperson, “but we are choosing to focus on the best collaborative approach that will lead to the way forward.

“We do have significant concern for the costs and time related to these matters, and the impact on staffing.”

Pinky’s had commenced hiring and training staff but will have to suspend start-up operations until there is clarity from the Department of Planning.

A spokesperson said: “The snowball effect of interruptions to large business projects carry incredible financial burdens and provide risk to viability.

“In our case, we again may need to seek additional funding. The snowball gets bigger with the 45 persons which will not be employed, and the lost revenue intended to service related debts.

“Pinky’s apologises for the disappointment to both its new and pending employees and the general public. Our best hope is for expeditious resolution so that we can get back on track.”