The NAAFI café in Catterick Garrison closed due to rising costs, despite community efforts to save the key military and civilian hub.
A petition got over 1,500 signatures. Actor Anthony Cotton supported them. Sadly, they found no way to save it. Rising costs made the café unsustainable. Rent, rates, and expenses increased.
The Navy, Army, and Air Force Institutes (NAAFI) could not afford it. The closure upset many local people a lot. They saw the café as more than just a place to eat. The café was a community hub.
People connected there and shared stories. It was a welcoming, relaxed place. Councillor Kevin Foster spoke of the loss. He noted the café linked military and civilian groups. MP Rishi Sunak contacted NAAFI about solutions.
Keeping it open was still too hard. NAAFI released a statement on the door. They regretted closing the popular spot. Financial issues forced their hand. They said it was no longer economically viable.
This was despite serving many people well. Many used social media to share their memories. They mourned the loss of comfort. The café helped veterans feel connected. The Garrison Hub updated everyone on February 28th.
They talked about plans for the old NAAFI site. They finally spoke to the NAAFI team. The team was extremely cooperative and helpful. NAAFI tried very hard to make it work, according to the Hub.
Communication with the landlord was the issue. The owner didn’t engage with the Hub. They also didn’t engage with other potential tenants. Vacant places could become special for the community. The Garrison Hub isn’t giving up.