Able Coffee, operated by Wilson and Bay in Newport's Tredegar Park, will cease trading on September 27 after the brand was refused the tender for the newly restored Tredegar Park Lodge. The mobile coffee van has been a fixture near the park's entrance for four years, but the loss of the bid has led to its closure.
Plans for expansion halted
Owner Jonathan Hill had planned to transform the Lodge into a larger operation than their current temporary unit, featuring a self-service dog grooming station, conference rooms, and event spaces. However, a council decision not to retender to Wilson and Bay has prevented these plans from proceeding, ultimately resulting in the closure.
The Lodge, located at the southeast corner of the park, had stood vacant and deteriorating for years before renovations began in December 2025. The decision has also put five staff members at risk of losing their positions.
Owner's response
Mr Hill expressed disappointment, saying: "When we first opened footfall and park usage were very different to what they are today. Since then both have grown significantly and so has our business." He added that the tender represented an opportunity to take the next step, but acknowledged the complexity of the tendering process with local authorities.
He noted that the business is entering a full and structured redundancy process to explore staff relocation options, though other stores are operating at full capacity. Mr Hill also raised concerns about the hospitality tendering system and its impact on staff when contracts change hands.
Second closure this year
This marks the second closure for Wilson and Bay Coffee in 2026, following the closure of their Caerleon Road shop in May. The business continues to operate at Christchurch Viewpoint and in Caldicot. Newport City Council has been approached for comment.
