The cafes will be closing from 12 January for approximately three months while the work is being carried oput.
The two cafes, located inside the Visitor Centre and near the tennis courts, will be refurbished and modernised, allowing for takeaways and outdoor seating. An ice cream kiosk is also set to be installed and operated during the summer months.
Whilst the upgrade goes ahead, the team at the park is trying to secure mobile coffee kiosk for anyone visiting the park who needs refreshment.
-- Advertisement --
Councillor Abdul Salam Khan, cabinet member for policing and equalities, said: "Lockdown showed us just how much we need natural spaces – which can act as a place to meet friends, to walk dogs, enjoy some exercise or just get some fresh air. The War Memorial Park is a very beautiful spot in the city and refurbishing the cafes to allow for outdoor seating and takeaway means visitors have more options about how they want to enjoy the park.
"The cafes have been much-enjoyed in the past and we hope that they’ll continue to be enjoyed once they reopen in late April 2022 when the refurbishments works are anticipated to be completed."
The Council has awarded the contract to manage the new cafes at the War Memorial Park to Coombe Abbey Park (LACo) Limited. The new operator is investing in the refurbishment of the facilities and plans to add an ice cream kiosk which will increase seasonal employment. All the staff who are currently employed at the café will transfer to the new operator in this arrangement, protecting local jobs.
