Work is at an advanced stage for the opening of the city’s first cycling themed café at The Level.
New business Velo has been offered the lease on the eco-café marking the latest development in Brighton & Hove City Council’s £2.3 million restoration of The Level.
Councillor Pete West, chair of the council’s Environment, Transport and Sustainability committee said:
“The restoration of The Level is one of the most exciting and significant projects undertaken in the city in recent years and I am delighted that we are able to offer our residents the city’s first cycling café as part of this project.
“What impressed us about Velo’s bid was the emphasis on sustainable food sourcing, fresh produce and affordable prices, alongside the exciting cycling theme.”
Run by a team of local entrepreneurs, headed by Nigel Lambe co-owner of Small Batch Coffee Company, café ‘Velo’ will combine a cycling theme with coffee and food.
The new single-storey café has high sustainability credentials including a green wildlife-friendly roof, solar thermal and PV panels, air source heating and a rainwater harvesting system.
The building, occupying a highly visible position at the heart of the park adjacent to the restored and re-landscaped Rose Walk, will feature glass doors opening out onto a substantial dining terrace on three sides.
Its positioning enables visitors to look out over the rest of the park, particularly the southern area with its new sensory gardens, water fountains, children’s play areas, restored pavilions, bridges and pergolas.
With its cycling theme, it is hope the café will become a haven for cyclists, but Nigel and his team are committed to creating a ‘community hub’ which will be appealing to all residents, their families, visitors and commuters.
Nigel said:
“From grabbing a coffee on the way to work to, bringing the kids back at the weekend for a drink and a bite to eat – Velo will be accessible and fun for everyone.”
“We’ll make a simple promise to our customers – to deliver a high quality experience at every level and be accessible to all.
“It’s more about our attitude to a healthy and active lifestyle, than about the Lycra!
“In common with our other local businesses, we will strive to source local products wherever possible and create long term employment both within our cafes and the wider supply chain.”
Velo will be providing a varied menu, at prices which will appeal to everyone. Staff are committed to working with the council and Garden Manager in supporting the community and future activities in the park.
The café is expected to be open by the end of September, although the restored south end of the park including the playground and the new skatepark which recently re-opened to the public.
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