Cafe complains after market stall blocks shop

A CITY centre cafe has complained that it was left struggling after being blocked by Newcastle's Christmas markets.

- DANIEL HOLLAND

> Liam said business fell 70% when a rival was initially given a stall right outside his shop

The team at the Priory Press coffee house and juice bar issued an appeal for support last week after seeing its trade take a major dip after Christmas market stalls were erected directly outside its site in Nelson Street.

Priory Press director Liam Douglas said that business fell by around 70% after the wooden sheds were first erected, with the situation made even worse by a rival coffee shop initially being given a stall directly outside.

But the situation has since improved, thanks to loyal customers who answered a plea for help on social media over the weekend.

Newcastle City Council confirmed that the Christmas market coffee seller has now been relocated and promised action to support Priory Press following "productive discussions".

Liam told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the initial fall in trade had left the business concerned about paying its bills.