Cafe Relocates To Johnston

A Pembrokeshire cafe owner is putting up the finishing touches to her new premises at Pope Hill, Johnston, after relocating from Haverfordwest.

Tonia Williams traded in the town’s Riverside Market and said the decision to move had been driven by Pembrokeshire County Council’s plans for the market.

Current plans will see it being developed into a high quality culture and arts centre comprising a nationally significant exhibition gallery, 21st Century County library and a tourist information centre in the heart of the town.

“It wasn’t an easy decision but the support I have received from the Council has made it better,” she said.

“I was reluctant to go initially. We had a loyal customer base, we knew our surroundings and I was settled but the Council’s Property Section has made relocating much smoother. They’ve been very honest.

“I’ve had helpful advice on leasing and with dealing with solicitors, and the trades people I have dealt with have been superb. I’m really looking forward to the challenge of running the new business now but there’ll be some changes I’ll have to get used to.

“The customer base will be different and we’ll be opening earlier to accommodate passing trade so that will be the biggest difference I think.”

Tonia, who has worked in retail and catering for most of her life, said the premises, which will be called the ‘Halfway Cafe’ required a total re-fit.

“Although it’s always been used as a cafe or food premises I wanted to put my stamp on it so it was out with the old and in with the new, even down to the plumbing.

“I signed the lease on May 10th and have been working on it ever since.”

And the challenges don’t stop there. Although two regular members of staff have moved with her to Halfway Cafe she’ll be recruiting for more.

“There was a bit of uncertainty with some members of staff when I first announced the move and they left to find new jobs for added security.

“I was sad to see them go but could understand the reasons, but as one door closes another opens and we’ll be on the lookout for more staff as we become more established.”

Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Communities Councillor Keith Lewis praised the support that Tonia has received.

“As a businessman, I understand how difficult it must have been for an established business to move however we have worked hard to make the move as smooth as possible and we wish her new venture every success.”

Caption
Pictured at the new Halfway Cafe are (left to right) Council Chairman Cllr Tony Brinsden, Saskia Lee, Kerry Lee, Tonia Williams (owner), Barry Cooke (Head of Property), Donna Ashbolt and Cllr Keith Lewis.