FURY has erupted after much-loved independent cafés, backed by locals and celebrities including Benedict Cumberbatch, were handed to a trendy chain.
Campaigners say the decision ignores strong public opposition and shows how independent cafés and shops are being pushed out by big chains across London.
The cafés are spread across Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park in North London, all managed by the City of London Corporation, which oversees the green spaces as a registered charity.
The Corporation has confirmed that four of the five cafés put out to tender will now be taken over by Aussie-inspired operator Daisy Green.
The sites affected are Parliament Hill, Parliament Hill Lido, Golders Hill Park and Queen’s Park.
A decision regarding the fifth café at Highgate Wood has not yet been made, as discussions continue and due diligence is still in progress.
The decision follows a remarketing process launched earlier this year that placed the futures of the existing operators at risk, sparking protests, open-air demonstrations and a huge grassroots campaign to save the cafés.
Campaigners collected around 20,000 signatures on a Change.org petition, organised rallies and even staged a Save the Cafés Cabaret, complete with live music, poetry and puppetry, in Swains Lane, warning that cherished community spaces were being lost to commercialisation.
Campaigners say the decision reflects a wider crisis for independent cafés and shops, increasingly pushed out by chains with deeper pockets.
Across London, rising rents and competitive tendering have seen long-established local businesses replaced by branded operators, prompting fears communities are losing the social hubs that give neighbourhoods their character.
Patrick Matthews, Director at Hoxton Beach, which runs the Lido, Queen’s Park and Highgate Wood cafés, said he had been “overwhelmed” by the backing received, making the Corporation’s decision all the more “surprising”.
According to a spokesperson for the Real Cafés Campaign, the decision left many feeling saddened, disappointed, and angry.
High-profile supporters were quick to condemn the move.
“This is about people and not profit,” said Benedict Cumberbatch.
“It’s vital that we stand up for people who run businesses that serve the community, to preserve the livelihoods of individuals who have been crafting relationships with their customers.”
James McAvoy added: “If the City of London Corporation wants to serve the community on the Heath and other places it is crucial that we protect our sense of community by keeping these cafés in experienced local hands.
He said that the present owners have the flexibility to shape these spaces around the specific needs and character of their local communities—something large chains and corporate operators simply can’t match.
Downton Abbey actor Stephen Campbell Moore praised the Parliament Hill Lido café as a rare community hub: “The Lido Café provides swimmers and passers-by with invaluable warmth, wonderful music and laughter, exhibitions of local artists, and affordable home-made food with a menu that changes weekly.
“It is magnetic in bringing people together. These are all things no chain could dream of doing.”
Musician James Righton, who is married to Keira Knightley, called the Lido Café a “Hampstead institution”, adding: “Places like this are what make London so special.
“The Lido café is at the heart of our community.”
Campaigner Doug Crawford accused the Corporation of a lack of transparency, claiming there had been “no attempt to engage with the wider community”.
Although a decision was due to be made by the Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Committee on December 8, much of the discussion took place behind closed doors. More than a week later, operators had still not been formally informed.
It has since emerged that Daisy Green was selected after 30 bids were reviewed by Corporation staff, with support from consultants Davis Coffer Lyons.
Corporation defends decision
The City of London Corporation said the tendering process was designed to ensure a “high-quality visitor experience”, insisting Daisy Green is not a chain but an independent London-based business, with each café retaining its own identity.
Committee chair Alderman Gregory Jones KC said Daisy Green “will bring energy, creativity, and investment to each site”, including upgraded buildings, seasonal menus and discounts for older residents.
Daisy Green co-founder Prue Freeman said: “Each site has a unique character and generational roots within its community. We look forward to creating wonderful spaces for all.”
Campaigners, however, remain unconvinced, arguing the decision undermines trust and reinforces fears that financial considerations are being prioritised over people and place.
The Sun has approached Daisy Green for comment.
