Star Park Cafe Opportunity in Jill Dando’s Hometown
By Community Correspondent
A beloved park café linked to Jill Dando is set for an exciting new chapter — and locals could soon have a brand-new spot to eat, drink and relax.
North Somerset Council has officially launched a search for a fresh operator to take over the café in Grove Park — offering a huge 15-year lease in one of the town’s most treasured green spaces.
The café sits just steps from the much-loved Jill’s Garden, created in memory of the former BBC star, and right in the heart of the bustling Victorian park.
After a temporary closure, the site is now ready to reopen following a major makeover funded by a £20 million government boost.
The revamp includes a brand-new entrance, improved pathways, eco-friendly upgrades and new accessible facilities — all designed to bring more visitors flooding into the park.
And with events like Pride, Eid celebrations and live music regularly drawing crowds, the café is seen as a golden opportunity for the right business.
Council chiefs say they’re looking for a creative, community-minded operator who can serve up top-quality food while supporting local suppliers and catering to all tastes and backgrounds.
With applications now open and a mid-April deadline looming, the race is on to breathe new life into this iconic location.
How to apply
The concession opportunity is now live as of today (19 March 2026) on the Supplying the South West procurement portal: www.supplyingthesouthwest.org.uk
Applicants must register on the portal to bid. Deadline for applications: Thursday 16 April 2026.
Bidder support is available from ProActis at: ProContractSuppliers@proactis.com
A detailed inspection report and schedule of works are included in the tender documents. Site visits can also be arranged by emailing: concessions@n-somerset.gov.uk
