Pandemic battered high street finally gets good news with cafe plan (original) (raw)

The pandemic damaged town centres and high streets across the UK but perhaps none more do than Colwyn Bay's Station Road. It once hosted Boots, WH Smith, Peacocks, New Look and TOFS - but they all left.

Cafes have also gone - from former favourite Eateasy to Porters, which was changed into a social supermarket. Around the corner Costa also left town this year.

It has left empty shop fronts and once grand buildings now looking well past their sell by date. One of those eyesores is the former Imperial Hotel building.

It was once a grand destination in the town's heyday and later became the home for 'The Imp' nightclub. But that closed in 2010 and the building fell into disrepair.

It was snapped up last year by a developer and work has finally got underway to transform the building to an apartment and commercial use.

Jack 'Bobby' Stott will open Bobcats cafe in Colwyn Bay

Now Jack 'Bobby' Stott has announced plans for a cafe in the downstairs area of the once iconic building. Bobcats Coffee will finally bring some new life into the high street with hopes the cafe and general redevelopment of the key site will kickstart the regeneration of the street.

Bobby said: "At Bobcats Coffee we will be offering a cosy space with fresh coffee, sandwiches, toasties, cakes, pastries, and soups.

Jack 'Bobby' Stott will open Bobcats cafe in Colwyn Bay

"All of our food is freshly made, and we're aiming to create a welcoming environment for everyone - plus, we're cat and dog-friendly.

"At just 20 years old, I’m passionate about making this a great spot for people to work or relax with a good cup of coffee. I’ve had a big passion for coffee and a dream for many years and managed to save up enough to make the dream happen."

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