Four Square Park Cafe in Saughton Park set to close after three years
Charity Four Square said the cafe had operated at a loss since opening in 2023
A homelessness charity's Saughton Park cafe is set to close at midday tomorrow in the face of financial challenges.
Four Square Park Cafe announced the sudden closure yesterday, revealing that the cafe had been operating at a loss since it opened three years ago.
Revealing the plans to close on Wednesday, November 11, Four Square’s chief executive Jane Devine said: “Closing Four Square Park Café is a decision we have not wanted to make. We have worked for three years to make the cafe a success, and we are incredibly proud of what it has achieved.
“The café has been about community and providing a beautiful space for people to come together, celebrated some of life's most important occasions and it has given more than 20 young people the opportunity to take their first steps into employment.
“Sadly, despite everything the café has contributed socially, we have not been able to make the business financially viable.”
Four Square took over the former bistro after its owners shut up shop due to mounting bills and the cost of living crisis.
The cafe marked an expansion of the charity’s existing social enterprise, having run the second-hand furniture store Edinburgh Furniture Initiative on Gorgie Road for over twenty years.
Money raised from the store helps fund its seven locations across the city which are staffed by over 80 employees.
It has been a tough period for the charity, which provides advice, accommodation and opportunities for those suffering from or at risk of homelessness, after its furniture store was hit by theft and severe vandalism three weeks ago.
Reacting to the news, local MP Scott Arthur said: “The café has been much more than just a place to grab a coffee. It became part of what makes Saughton Park special, helping to create a welcoming atmosphere and providing a space where people could meet, connect and enjoy one of Edinburgh's finest green spaces.
“What made it particularly special was its commitment to giving something back to the community. It was a venture with a social purpose, making a positive difference to the lives of many people while serving park visitors.
“Its closure is a real loss.”
The “hidden gem” had received support from the council, Friends of Saughton Park and the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society who are headquartered at the park but sadly this and “a glorious summer” were not enough to balance the books.
Ms Devine added: “We are immensely grateful to everyone who has supported the café, worked in it, volunteered in it, celebrated in it and made it part of their lives. We will always be proud of its social impact.
“We hope that someone with a fresh perspective and an innovative approach to running a park café will see the potential in this wonderful space and find a way to make it work for the local community.”
The Edinburgh Furniture Institute as well as the rest of the charity are unaffected by the sudden closure.