Work has finally got underway on a long-held ambition to create an indoor community café at Bath City Farm, with ground being broken at the site earlier this week.
The charity has secured funding of £500,000 to build the new café, and contractors Ken Biggs have now begun work.
It has been designed by local architects Hetreed Ross Architects and will have indoor seating for 30 to 40 people with two outdoor terraces with views across Bath.
The cafe will be run as a community business, with all profits reinvested in the farm, including supporting the charity’s volunteer programs and paying for animal food.
It will provide several new job opportunities for the community, as well as work experience for some of the farm’s volunteers.
Building will take place over the coming six months, with the launch of the cafe anticipated for late spring 2022.
It is planned that the new venture will showcase volunteers work in growing and rearing produce which will then feature in dishes on the cafe menu.
New director at the farm, Brendan Wistreich said: “The whole of Bath City Farm is buzzing about the commencement of the new cafe build.
“This is the culmination of years of planning and incalculable volunteer hours. We are focused on opening in Spring so there is still lots to do.
“Thanks to all users of the farm for your support and helping to make this such a great place to be.”