Charity confirms closure of Shaw Cafe following Covid hit
Date published: 25 January 2022
Pure Innovations will continue to operate the cafe until July
A cafe in Shaw run by a charity that supports people with a disability is set to close in July following the impact of the Covid pandemic.
The Dunwood Park Cafe has been run by Pure Innovations in Stockport since March 2019. The project provided opportunities for their clients with a disability to develop new life skills and meet new people. The charity says the cafe provided a welcoming environment for the community in Shaw.
Shaw Councillor Howard Sykes MBE said he was saddened by the announced closure.
"This is a great loss to the local community, and we will be doing all we can to find another user, like we did when the last operator pulled out.
"Pure Innovations who operate the café have been up front about this and will continue to operate it until July 2022. Hopefully this gives the council time to make alternative provision.”
During their time operating the cafe, Pure Innovations have worked with the community to continue providing a service. During the Covid lockdowns, they continued to provide a takeout service for visitors to the park.
However, continuing restrictions have meant the cafe is no longer viable, Pure Innovations say.
"The challenges we face in the main relate to the fact that we have been unable to attract clients that have wanted to spend their time within the café environment. This along with increased operating costs will mean the cafe is budgeted to make a significant financial loss across 2022/2023.
"As a Charity that’s main purpose is to support people with Disabilities, we are unable to absorb the budgeted loss and it is with regret will be closing the café in July 2022.
"We would like to thank our customers, the Friends of Dunwood Park and all the local councillors for their support. And wish all the very best in finding an alternative operator for the café.”
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