Shaw councillors were informed of the closure of the café in Dunwood Park a few days ago but were asked not to share the information until staff and the Park Friends group were informed.  This has now happened.

“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,” stated Shaw councillor Howard Sykes on behalf of all his colleagues.

“Pure Innovations who operate the café have been up front about this and will continue to operate it until July 2022,” he added.  “Hopefully this gives the council time to make alternative provision.”

Pure Innovations (PI) re-opened Dunwood Park Café in March 2019, with two key objectives.  The first to provide a project for our clients all of whom have a disability, to contribute to and develop new life skills, a place to meet people and feel part of the local community in which they live.  Along with providing the local community of Shaw a welcoming café environment with quality produce at good value to purchase whilst spending time at Dunwood Park.

Over the last three years PI have received much support from the local community and even during the pandemic once re-opening the café continued to offer a takeout service to many people using the Park. The challenges PI 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, they are unable to absorb the budgeted loss and it is with regret will be closing the café in July 2022.

PI said: “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.”