News

Three out of four Enfield park cafés shut down by council now reopened

The four venues were all suddenly closed last September over rental debts incurred by the operators

Enfield’s first cycling cafe is now open in Oakwood Park (credit London Cycling Club)

Three out of the four park cafés that Enfield Council shut down last year over a rental dispute have now reopened.

The cafés at Trent Park, Whitewebbs Park, Town Park and Oakwood Park all closed on the same day last September when enforcement action was taken against the leaseholder following a “contract breach” which the Dispatch later revealed to be a total rental debt of £69,541.

Last October the council invited catering companies to apply to run the facilities and, ten months later, all but one have now reopened.

A not-for-profit cycling club is now running “Enfield’s first cycling café” in Oakwood Park, a Caribbean caterer is operating from Whitewebbs Park, and a health food outlet has opened at Trent Park.

Town Park in Enfield Town remains the last of the four to still be closed.

An Enfield Council spokesperson said: “Following competitive tenders, we are delighted to confirm that the cafés in Trent and Oakwood parks have been renovated and are now fully operational, offering a range of beverages and delicious foods and a place to relax in these much-loved Enfield parks.

“Jerk ‘n’ Grind at Whitewebbs Park is being supported by Enfield Council to operate from a mobile unit, until sufficient funding is available for the café to be fitted out. In addition, the Cedar Tree Café recently opened at Forty Hall Estate. Each of these businesses has a unique offering for local people.

“We are determined that all our parks’ cafés offer healthy food options and carefully-considered menus within attractive, well-maintained interiors. We will continue to invest in our parks and open spaces which attract thousands of visitors each year.

“The process to find an appropriate business to run Town Park’s café is ongoing and we expect to have an update on this soon. To find out about further commercial opportunities that are available, please visit our website.”

London Cycling Club, previously known as Londra Bisiklet Kulubu, runs training sessions from its main base at Churchfield Recreation Ground in Edmonton, but expanded in June to launch its new venue at Oakwood Park. A bike borrowing service is even available.

The group explains: “Oakwood Park Cafe’s bike library is a local place where you can borrow a bicycle just like you borrow a book, and the best part – it won’t cost you a thing. Our aim is to build stronger communities, promote active travel, and support healthier lifestyles among Enfield residents.

“Complete a short bike borrowing registration form, present your ID, and we’ll provide you with the key to take a bike for a few hours or even the whole day, all for free.”

Ripe Kitchen opened at Trent Park in May. The “independent healthy food and drink destination” posted on Facebook at the time: “We’re thrilled to announce the opening of our second location at Trent Country Park in Enfield.

“Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Trent Park, our newest spot promises to be your go-to destination for delicious coffee, mouth-watering sandwiches, homemade delights and unforgettable moments.

“Trent Park is about to get a lot more caffeinated!”

Jerk ‘n’ Grind, opened earlier this month at Whitewebbs, describes itself as an “everyday fast-food operation spotlighting jerk and curry chicken wraps for takeaway”.


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