Over the next two weeks, Brandon Trust and volunteers will be refurbishing the Kingswood’s Grimsbury Barn Café ahead of its re-launch in July 2019.
The new plans aim to improve accessibility including the newly developed parking, petting areas and washing facilities. Alongside a fresh take on the ever popular café menu.
By operating as a full time project, Brandon Trust hopes to provide supported work placements for people with learning disadvantages whilst working closely with South Gloucestershire Council to heighten the spirit of the community.
Jo Cullum, manager of Brandon Trust’s social enterprises said: “We are delighted to take on Barn Café full-time”.
“For the past eight years, we have provided vocational training and supported employment for people with learning disabilities and opening full-time will allow us to provide two more job opportunities”.
South Gloucestershire Council have announced that they are very excited to work with the Brandon Trust more closely.
A spokesperson added: “Grimsbury Farm is a crucial and unique open space providing countryside in our urban areas the city; a place to learn, relax, and get close to nature in the heart of Kingswood.”
The council also thanked the friends of the Barn Café who will continue their efforts to promote the Farm in the community and support multiple events.
They said: “their dedication and commitment over the years created and developed the Barn Café into a thriving business that we can all build on for the future.”
With only a few days remaining before the new management structure, an official statement was posted on Grimsbury Farm’s Facebook page and website.
“On behalf of the Trustees and all the Friends of Grimsbury Farm from Monday 24th June 2019, the volunteers of The Friends of Grimsbury Farm will no longer be responsible for the management of the Barn Café.”
Since the news broke, fans of the café quickly took to Facebook as many felt the volunteers provided a homely environment.
Geoff Smith who regularly visited the farm for coffee and a slice of cake said: ‘the local community have worked really hard to get it to where it is today, it is a sad day indeed’.
Despite the café’s establishment in 2006, others believe Grimsbury Barn Café will benefit from the new changes.
Claire Earl said: “Really good things are coming!”
