REFURBISHMENT of a beloved former cafe will not take place as it has been classes 'beyond economic repair'.

The Blenheim Gardens Cafe closed in November last year, after 50 years of serving the town.

Former manager Suzanne Dean decided to close the cafe after the previous authority, West Somerset Council, changed the terms of the lease.

Mrs Dean, who had been in charge of the cafe for the last 25 years, decided not to renew as it was 'too expensive'.

She spoke fondly of her time at the cafe when she said goodbye, but noted the building needed some TLC.

Covenants on the land prohibit the erection of a permanent building in the gardens, so options are being explored by the owners, Somerset West and Taunton Council.

The council is set to update the members at the Minehead Area Panel meeting on September 11.

But it's not looking hopeful for the building's future.

A spokesperson said in a report: "The building is beyond economic repair so no refurbishment is planned. Consultation is underway to assess the demand for refreshments in the gardens.

"A temporary concession has been granted for six months, Somerset West and Taunton Council recently met with a representative of Minehead Town Council where wide ranging discussion regarding Blenheim Gardens took place.

"The council is looking at the costs of a number of suggested options and is currently carrying out a survey to determine the desire for refreshments to be provided in the Gardens before it can make a decision."


READ MORE: Discussions taking place over new cafe plan for Blenheim Gardens


Minehead Town Council is also hoping to see the 'jewel in the crown' on Minehead restored.

The possibility of having a wooden structure is being explored, which would have inside and outside space for eating, as well as public toilets.

Mayor of Minehead Cllr Sandra Slade said last month: “We have discussed a number of alternative proposals, including the provision of a wooden construction café or, even, town council maybe managing the gardens on behalf of district council.

“Although no decisions have yet been made, we are encouraged by the response some of our suggestions have received.

“We know how much the café closure affected residents and the town and we want to assure them that we are doing our utmost to achieve some workable solution that will please the residents.

“However, these things do move slowly, and we ask for patience as we endeavour to move matters forward.”