If you’ve ever wandered through town on a chilly morning, you’ll know our local cafés do more than serve coffee. They’re where we start the day, catch up with friends, squeeze in a quick lunch, or take five minutes to breathe. In many ways, they’re little community hubs that make our town feel warm, lively, and welcoming.
Our café scene is also part of what gives James Street its personality. Independent spots bring variety, character, and friendly faces, and many work with local suppliers or help out behind the scenes by donating prizes, supporting school events, or spreading the word about what’s happening in the area.
Like many small businesses, cafés are under pressure from rising costs and unpredictable trade, all while trying to keep prices reasonable. That’s why everyday support really matters. It doesn’t have to mean buying a fancy coffee every day, either. Popping in for something small, meeting a friend locally instead of choosing a chain, or trying a café you haven’t visited before can make a real difference. If you’ve had a good experience, recommending it to someone else or leaving a quick online review helps more than you might think.
The council wants our town centre to stay lively, independent, and enjoyable to visit, and cafés are a big part of that. We’ll continue working with local businesses and partners to promote our James Street precinct and support events and activities that bring people into town.
Next time you’re out, consider making your stop a local one. A warm drink, a friendly chat, and a small treat can brighten your day — and help keep our café scene thriving.