Business

Cafe bar plans could kick-start Woodley night-time ecomony

By Jon Nurse
October 23, 2012

Plans for a cafe and bar in the precinct could be the start of a night-time economy in the town centre.

Town centre manager Jacques Lherbier revealed in a report to the Woodley Town Centre Management Initiative last Wednesday that Loungers café/bar chain is hoping to take on the former Lloyds Chemist in Crockhamwell Road.

Mr Lherbier said: “They have put in an offer and the landlord is looking for a change of use to a restaurant. I think that’s good news.

“Unless the deal falls through they could arrive at the end of the year or the beginning of next year.”

The chain, which has 22 cafés across the country including Caversham’s Alto Lounge, would open from 9am to 11pm.

“For the first time we would have a restaurant open in Woodley town centre,” Mr Lherbier added.

“Woodley has definite potential. You only need one to start and others could follow.”

The Big Discount store is operating in the unit on a temporary lease.

Gordon Davies, headteacher at Beechwood Primary School, said: “I think it’s the right sort of thing for Woodley. It could be the start of better things.”

Mr Lherbier added that the former Clinton Cards store in Crockhamwell Road would soon re-open as Just Cards on a temporary lease.

There was also interest from another two traders, including a kitchen design company.

| Submit Comments | View Comments (8)

« Previous Story | Next Story »

Most recent user comments 8 of 8

At long last. This is what I have been saying for years is needed in Woodley. We also have the old Clinton Cards shop available. That could be another restaurant which would be lovely. A bit of competition never did anyone any harm. There are a great deal of residential homes situated near Woodley Shopping Centre and to be able to walk to a restaurant would be a really good choice. Brilliant idea. Well done whoever has thought of this.

Me-Here, Woodley
25/10/2012 at 14:55

I don't think this a good idea. We need a proper Resturant somewhere out of the town centre as there has been more crime in the town centre in the past few months!

Amy Barnes
24/10/2012 at 23:12

antthing would be an improvement in woodley town centre where ever that is ?

dickemery, caversham
24/10/2012 at 11:50

Butchers? Greengrocer?. Naah lets bring on another card shop. Unbelievable

Why oh Why oh Why, Reading
23/10/2012 at 13:43

A card shop? I bet that will fold easily.

Paul Daniels' reattached finger.
23/10/2012 at 12:01

A few more 'useful' shops like the greengrocers and butchers that were there would be better than yet another cafe.... although I suppose we should be grateful it's not another Charity Shop!

And another Card Shop? dear-oh-dear!