Colchester City Council is inviting Expressions of Interest from community-minded organisations to lease and run the café at Old Heath Recreation Ground – a much-loved green space just south of the city centre.
The café, located between the playground and community garden, offers indoor and outdoor seating, public toilets, and an outdoor serving hatch. It’s ideally placed to serve local families, park runners, cyclists, and visitors enjoying the football pitch, basketball court, and regular community events.
This opportunity is open to charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups with experience in managing community spaces and a passion for bringing people together.
As part of its commitment to working more closely with communities to manage and sustain valued local assets, the council is inviting partners to help continue this much-loved café as a welcoming and inclusive space for all.
Cllr Mark Cory, Portfolio Holder for Resources and Assets, said: “We’re committed to working hand-in-hand with our communities to manage and sustain the places that matter most to them. This café is a great example of how local organisations can take the lead in shaping and running valued community assets, ensuring they continue to thrive for everyone who uses them.”
Cllr Jocelyn Law, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for a local group to take the lead in creating a space that reflects the spirit of Old Heath. We know how important places like this are for building connections and supporting community life.”
Expressions of Interest open on 6 October and close on 14 November 2025.
Page last reviewed: 6 October 2025