Council to close Cantley Park cafe
WOKINGHAM Borough Council has announced its intention to close the cafe at Cantley Park.
Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, sport and leisure, said: “We’re disappointed that we will be closing the café at Cantley Park, but it is running at a loss, usage is low and we are unable to ensure opening hours align with the other facilities provided in the park.
He added that like local authorities around the country, Wokingham is facing financial challenges.
He said: “It is extremely tough financially for everyone, from residents to local businesses.
“Councils are no different and not immune to these challenges.
“We have to ensure frontline services are protected and that we make the best use of our assets to generate income.”
The council, through its property agents, has been marketing the 2,339 sq ft Cantley Park pavilion.
The listing said: “Cantley Park Pavilion is a spacious unit across ground and first floors, which is predominantly open plan with the flexibility to be easily divided or opened out further.
“The unit comes with an abundance of parking including electric vehicle charging points.
“Added features include kitchens on both ground and first floor, a balcony on the first floor and an external paved area to the front for outdoor seating.
“The premises looks on to the sports pitches, which are typically fully booked.”
The property is listed as being under offer.
Cllr Shenton added: “We have taken the decision to consider the wider opportunities for the use of the building and other opportunities to provide catering that are financially more sustainable.
“We have recently marketed the unit and had a number of local businesses interested in moving into Cantley Park.
“The details of this are commercially sensitive, but we are confident a new business will be moving in shortly.”
“Once the legal process is complete, we will have a better idea of timescales for the café closure.”
He added that café staff were informed of the proposals at the end of 2023.