A WOMAN who is planning to open an art café in Padgate says it will bring the community closer together.

Natalie Brown has submitted plans to turn the former Millennium Sun and Beauty Salon at Bruche Heath Gardens into an art café and sandwich shop.

She hopes r’teapot will help to act as an incubator for artists in the area as well as become a focal point for the Padgate community.

The Kenilworth Drive resident said: “A great place for people to sit and chat is exactly what’s needed in Padgate – there’s nowhere around here that lets you just sit down, chill out and have a chat with other people from the neighbourhood.

“The café won’t just be for those who are interested in art but will be open to everyone – it’s about local people coming together to build a communal space which will in turn create a closer community.”

r’teapot plans to hold craft workshops on everything from crocheting and knitting to life-drawing.

Natalie added: “Everything in the café has been created by young artists using recycled materials, from the seating to the logo – these pieces will be seen and used by the public beside each artist’s name so that the young people can receive recognition for the work they’ve done.”

Warrington-based artist Natalie also responded to residents who were concerned over the parking situation, highlighting that customers who walk or bike to the shop will be given rewards.