The much-loved community café and food hub, Bwyd Da Bangor, which was set to close its doors at the end of March due to a lack of funding, has been offered a new lease on life.
Bangor Business Improvement District (BID), also known as Bangor First, has announced that it will take over the business, ensuring that its legacy continues in a fresh and dynamic way.
The announcement came after Bwyd Da Bangor, a not-for-profit initiative dedicated to sustainability and community support, confirmed that it would cease operations on 31 March due to an inability to secure financial support for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The café, which opened in 2021, has been a vital part of Bangor High Street, offering a membership-based food share program, a high-quality training café, and a welcoming space for local artists and performers.
In a statement on social media, Bangor First expressed excitement about taking over the business, stating: “This move marks an exciting new chapter as we look to build on Bwyd Da’s amazing foundation and turn it into a vibrant hub that supports our local businesses, celebrates local flavours, and brings the community together. Expect more local produce, more pop-up events, more collaboration and plenty of delicious food.”
What is Bangor First?
Bangor First, or the Bangor Business Improvement District (BID), is a non-profit organization established in November 2015 by local businesses in Bangor. Its main goal is to enhance city centre vibrancy through projects that benefit the local community and economy.
As a BID, Bangor First is funded through a levy on local businesses within a defined area. This levy is typically a small percentage of a business’s rateable value and is used to finance the BID’s projects and services. The organisation is managed by a board of directors comprising representatives from various sectors, ensuring that the interests of the business community are well-represented.
In March 2021, Bangor First was re-elected for a second term following a ballot of local businesses, with 58% voting in favour. This renewed mandate allows the organisation to potentially invest over £740,000 in Bangor over the subsequent five years, focusing on making the city “greener, cleaner, and safer.”
The Impact of Bwyd Da Bangor
Bwyd Da Bangor has been more than just a café; it has played a crucial role in addressing food insecurity, social isolation, and mental health issues in the community. The site has also served as a food club, deli, and bistro, while providing event space for celebrations and community gatherings.
Despite receiving support from organisations such as the Welsh Government, Gwynedd Council, and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, the café faced mounting financial challenges. In a heartfelt social media post, the management of Bwyd Da Bangor expressed their sorrow over the closure, thanking customers, volunteers, and partners for their unwavering support. “We’re aware of the significant impact this will have upon both the High Street and the wider community,” the statement read, highlighting the importance of the café to those facing financial hardship or social challenges.
What’s Next for Bwyd Da Bangor?
While the original operation of Bwyd Da Bangor officially ended on 31 March, its rescue by Bangor First offers new hope for the community. The organisation has promised to maintain the spirit of Bwyd Da while expanding its offerings and continuing to serve local businesses and residents.
The Bangor Aye understands that while there are some formalities yet to be completed, it’s hoped that the doors of Bwyd Da could be open again very soon.
