Exhibition Park eatery Café in the Park has ceased trading with immediate effect, according to James Cross, CEO of Urban Green Newcastle (UGN), the charity that manages most of the city’s parks. 

Cross acknowledged that as well as being a much-loved place to enjoy a drink and bite to eat, the café has also served as an important community hub, providing a meeting place for local groups and park users. He said that UGN is working hard to ensure that the facility is up and running as soon as possible. 

In response to the UGN Facebook post that announced the closure – which was prior to the coronavirus crisis – several park-goers expressed their sadness. “The park needs a cafe!” commented one. “With decent prices and hot food. Hope someone takes it over and makes a good go of it.”

Another wrote: “I would have thought it would do well as it’s a great location and has always been very busy whenever I’ve been in.” The café also housed the only toilets on Exhibition Park. “The park also desperately needs public loos!” said one local. “Though it was awful that you had to buy something to use the toilet, all parks should have a toilet.”

David Brookbanks of UGN’s communication and PR team told JesmondLocal the charity was unable to share reasons for closure or plans for the future.