Emotions run high as Bishop cafe marks end of an era
Customers say the decision threatens the loss of a valued community space and a rare place to pause, chat and recharge amid daily errands.
Many believe the shift towards a βgrab and goβ model may look good on paper, but fails to reflect how the cafΓ© is used in practice.
On a recent Northern Echo Facebook post, one commenter who relocated from “fast-paced” Southern California, said: “Slowing down over a cup of coffee had become part of the appeal of shopping there.”
Some suggested rethinking the store layout rather than removing the cafΓ©.Β
Others agreed, pointing out not everyone wants takeaway coffee.
Concerns were also raised about the practicalities of a grab-and-go offering.
Shoppers noted that traffic and parking challenges at Tindale Retail Park already make quick visits difficult, and questioned whether people would make the journey just for a takeaway lunch.
However some described the cafΓ© as “very expensive,” while others said it was “always freezing,” and that they had to keep their coats on inside.
One individual said M&S has “never quite mastered cafΓ©s anyway.”
Still, even some critics conceded that the cafΓ© is usually busy and that its closure will be “a big miss” for Bishop Auckland.