A local volunteer urges Gateshead Council to rethink plans to demolish Ryton cafe, highlighting its importance for the community.
Ryton: A domestic abuse support volunteer is stepping up for a local cafe. This cafe, called Fed & Watered, is facing demolition by Gateshead Council. Sonia Rose Fradgley-Thompson, who runs a support group for survivors, believes the cafe is essential for the community.
She argues that places like Fed & Watered are more than just cafes. They serve as safe spaces for people who feel isolated, like the elderly and those who have lost loved ones. The cafe has stayed open despite the council’s orders to shut it down.
Sonia shared her thoughts, saying that closing the cafe would hurt many vulnerable people. It’s not just about losing a business; it’s about losing a place where people can connect and feel supported. She emphasized that the cafe is a lifeline for many.
She warned that removing such a resource could lead to more isolation and hardship. It’s crucial for the council to recognize the importance of these spaces. They have a choice to either support the community or create a void for those who need help.
Fed & Watered also collaborates with an animal therapy group, showing its commitment to community well-being. Locals have praised the cafe for being a safe haven, especially for children with special needs.
Recently, the council reiterated its decision to demolish the cafe, claiming it was built without permission and posed traffic risks. The cafe’s owner, Joanne Stanton, argues that it operates safely outside school hours and doesn’t contribute to traffic issues.
She even hired a consultant who suggested a one-way system to improve safety. Meanwhile, council opposition leader Ron Beadle has urged planners to work with the cafe’s owners to find a solution.
It’s clear that the community values Fed & Watered. Many visitors walk there, which helps keep traffic down. The council has yet to respond to these concerns.
