About The Pavilion Cafe
The Pavilion Café, located in Chadderton Hall Park, Chadderton, was established in May 2006.
Formerly a bowling pavilion, the building was a derelict eyesore, a target for vandals and in desperate need of renovation.
Retired Police Officer, local resident and businessman, Michael Cumiskey, saw the potential in the building and a niche in the market. He made an approach to Oldham Council and once planning permission was obtained, Michael gave up his job and set about transforming the dilapidated building into a comfortable, upmarket, family-friendly eating establishment.
Twelve years on, and the venture rides on the crest of a wave, with homemade Tradition English food being at the forefront of its success, as well as catering for minority groups and special dietary needs.
The Pavilion Café has attained the highest award of FIVE STARS, in the National ‘Stars on the Doors’ programme recently introduced by the Government, which reflects it’s extremely high standards of Food and Hygiene.
The Cafe was also awarded a 5 Star Certificate of Excellence in the Greater Manchester Healthier Catering Awards and was awarded a National Award for Creativity and Innovation.
Chadderton Hall Park is now equipped with a facility which caters for all the community, providing fresh, locally sourced food at a very reasonable price to all age groups. The ‘Health Conscious’ menu caters for all diverse cultures found within the boundaries of the Oldham area, including Vegan alternatives.
There are currently 5 full-time and 5 part-time staff employed, who are local people, and are encouraged offer the friendly approach and interact with customers regarding local issues.
In addition to being a ‘family-friendly’ venue, particular emphasis has been placed on welcoming the disabled, the vulnerable and the elderly. The building meets all the requirements to conform to the Disability Discrimination Act, including ramped access and disabled toilets allowing access for the largest of wheelchairs.
The seated decking area surrounding The Pavilion creates a ‘continental feel’ on a warm summer’s day.
Inter-action from local residents has resulted in a national 5K Park Run from the Cafe each Saturday morning, and several local Walking groups and Disabled groups have made the venue their base.
The Café also provides employment for 2 full-time staff members with Learning Disabilities, from the Adult and Community Services Department. The responsibility given to them and the ‘sense of belonging’ has boosted their confidence and self-esteem, integrated them into society and given them a sense of well-being.
In conclusion, the project has turned an unsightly, derelict building into the focal point and hub of the local community where young and old, disabled and able-bodied interact, make new friends and enjoy fine food in a warm and welcoming environment.
If you would like to volunteer to help host a Chatter & Natter table at this venue, apply here.
