Burghfield park café plans likely to get rejected

An idea for a temporary park café in Burghfield has divided the community.

More than 100 objections have been received by the council – with dozens more more supporting it.

Some of the objections include that it may sell alcohol, and it has been described as a ‘Trojan horse’ likely to be used as a pub.

Supporters say the village badly needs a structure within eyesight of the park to allow parents and caregivers somewhere to congregate and come together.

But the plans for the 24-seater, between the sports pavilion and the playground of the recreation ground, are likely to get ditched.

The police fear it will become a magnet for anti-social behaviour and trigger parking disputes nearby.

“The café also has the potential to attract groups of older children using the park and without any parental guidance,” say the police in their objection.

“The café will be a draw not only to provide refreshments but shelter from elements, heat, light and toilet facilities and is likely to impact staff on site.”

And there are also objections from the emergency planning team at the council about the café’s proximity to the bomb factory at AWE.

In the event of an emergency, it said: “…a traditional construction would be better to afford protection to the public for shelter.”

The proposal is recommended for refusal by planning officers at the eastern area planning committee next week.