'Structurally unsound' cafe and shop at Lancaster park to be demolished
Plans to demolish the ‘structurally unsound’ cafe and shop at Williamson Park in Lancaster have been approved.
Agents HPA Architects had submitted a planning application for demolition of the existing single storey cafe and shop unit, on behalf of the city council.
The proposal was approved at a planning committee meeting on Monday.
The planning documents said: "The existing cafe building is structurally unsound and was closed to members of the general public in February 2025.
“The applicant seeks to demolish the building to remove the health and safety risk, and install a new paved seating area to allow for temporary siting of relevant food stalls and cafe pods to serve members of the public enjoying the park.
“The scheme is a temporary measure while the council explores all options available for redevelopment of the site.”
A design and access statement said: “The building is no longer open to public due to recommendations from the Structural Engineer with regards to the deterioration of the structural condition rendering it unsafe.
“The café and shop sits adjacent to the The Palm House, atop the hill within Williamson Park. The site was previously a quarry from which the majority of the stone used to build the city was taken.
“The proposal seeks to demolish the existing structure, to remove the health and safety risks.
"This proposal seeks to replace it with Yorkstone paving and a white picket fence, enclosing the area while a longer-term plan for the site is finalised.
“The long term intention is for a replacement building to be erected on this site to support the operation of the park.
“The front of the café and shop is already paved with Yorkstone, and the proposed paving will ensure continuity across the site.
“The proposed white picket fence with secure access gates will restrict unauthorised access to the Mini Zoo, Butterfly House, and LCC staff areas.
“The proposed scheme ensures that, following the demolition of the existing structurally unsafe structure, the space can continue to support park operations until a long-term plan is finalised, while
preserving the park’s historical character.”
Meanwhile, plans for a replacement visitor lift to be installed in the Ashton Memorial were also approved at Monday’s meeting.