Delight as new cafe opens at Welborne this weekend - the first business in the new eco-town

A new cafe is set to open at Welborne this weekend - the first of a number of businesses which will be part of the new eco-town.

Welborne has announced the opening of The Corner Cafe, a new addition overlooking Welborne Park, providing a welcoming place for residents and the wider community to come together as the garden village begins to take shape north of Fareham.

Opening this weekend, The Corner Cafe sits at the heart of the first neighbourhood, adjacent to the popular playground and within easy reach of Dashwood - Welborne’s ancient woodland - in an area where many visitors are already drawn to the green spaces, walking and cycling routes, and show homes.

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Operated by Kalm Kitchens, the cafe has created new local employment opportunities, with a barista and catering team recruited mainly from the surrounding area. The menu features a selection of fresh, high-quality options, including sandwiches, seasonal salads, pastries, smoothies and barista coffee, alongside a deli-style offering designed for both eating in and takeaway. A small pantry area will also showcase local produce and seasonal items.

Fiona Gray, director of place, said: “Welborne has always been about creating a genuinely connected community, not simply delivering new homes. While the Village Centre will form the long-term heart of Welborne, it is equally important that we introduce spaces like this now, helping to foster community life from the outset.

“The Corner Cafe is already bringing people together, from residents to the wider community - it is open to all. The cafe is the perfect place to unwind, whether it be after a dog walk through Dashwood or along the Welborne Mile, play time in the park, or a visit to our stunning show homes. It offers a glimpse of the vibrant village we are creating for the future.”

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The Corner Cafe will be open seven days a week, from 8am to 5pm - Monday to Saturday and from 9am to 5pm on Sunday.

The opening of the cafe follows the news that plans for a new employment park granted planning permission - with a new primary school expected to also soon follow suit and open in September 2028.

The entire Welborne Garden Village, which will have a pub, health facilities, a hotel, two additional primary schools and a secondary school is expected to be complete by 2046.