Community cafe in talks to take over former Burnham-On-Sea adult learning center

A Burnham-On-Sea community cafe is in talks with Somerset Council to potentially take over the vacant former adult learning center opposite the town’s Princess Theatre.

The Waffle Hub hopes to expand its services, run from Burnham Methodist Church on College Street, and move to the larger building on Princess Street.

Burnham Adult Learning Center has been vacant since it closed in December 2017 due to county council budget cuts.

Speaking to Burnham-On-Sea.com this week, Waffle Hub founder Liz Bennett – pictured below with town councilor Barbara Vickers – said: “We are currently hosting 15 groups – from a regular group of employment support and IT support to a clothing store. bank and repair cafe.

“We are exploring the possibility of expanding the adult learning center, which would be more accessible and provide us with larger space, including space for confidential help and support services. »

She adds that the “exciting project” is in its early stages and the idea is being explored.

Liz adds: “We are also looking for more volunteers to get involved in our community groups and an open meeting will take place on December 14 at 2 p.m. Waffle Hub at Burnham Methodist Church, where residents can find out how they can help.

“This will be a great opportunity to hear about the Waffle Hub’s exciting plans and our vision. We encourage local people to come and get involved.

Earlier this year, Burnham-On-Sea.com reported here that Burnham and Highbridge Town Council had voted against moving their council chambers from Jaycroft Road and into the vacant adult learning center building due to the high cost of renovating the property.

Instead, an architect was appointed by the city council to produce plans to reconfigure and modernize the Jaycroft Road offices.