A COMMUNITY cafe in Poole will close its doors for good next month because it is “not viable to continue as a business”.

Lounge One coffee shop in Adastral Square, Canford Heath, will shut on December 23 after eight years of trading.

Posting on its Facebook page on Tuesday evening, November 15, Lounge One said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce that Lounge One will be closing permanently at the end of December 2022.

“Lounge One (previously Coffee House) has been trading since 2014 providing a space for people to meet in the community.

"Since Covid consistency of sales has been up and down and with the recent huge increases in costs, it is just not viable to continue as a business.

“We would really like to thank the previous managers Simon, Hayley, Andy, Beth, Hattie and Nikki for their hard work in helping provide the space.

"We have had fantastic staff in the eight years that have all contributed massively to the culture, we can’t mention them all in this message but would like to specially recognise the Gemma and Brandon for their commitment having worked since the beginning. “

Lounge One thanked its volunteers and said they had made a “huge impact” on the day to day running of the café.

The statement continued: “Lastly, we would like to thank our customers for your support, without customers we wouldn’t have been able to trade for so long.

"We will be in touch with all our community groups in the next few weeks to see how we can support in relocating.

“We are going to be here until 23rd December and would really love to see you all before we close.”

Dozens of people left comments on social media following the announcement. 

One person said: "Oh no this is so sad. You have been a great support to us and the young people we support. A big loss to the community."

Another added: "Really sorry to hear this, fantastic community cafe. Thankyou for all your hard work."