A PARTNERSHIP comprising tourism and catering professionals has acquire the lease of the Chester Visitor Centre & Cafe, which opened under new management in April.

The are around the visitor centre, adjacent to the amphitheatre, has recently seen footpath and landscaping improvements.

Brian Clarke, MD of Chester Boat and chairman of Chester Attractions Consortium, leads the new Chester Visitor Centre & Cafe partnership, which will provide a cafe, fully accessible toilets and baby change facilities, tourism information, a gift shop and an outlet selling tickets for attractions and events.

He said: “I was very sad to hear the centre had closed, particularly as I was aware what a valuable source of information and bookings it had previously provided.

“By working closely with fellow tourism businesses, we are determined to provide a facility which will provide a warm Chester welcome to visitors, which will also support some key Chester attractions.”

Within the ground floor of the centre is a new 60-seater Cheshire Taste Café, with al fresco seating, showcasing local food.

Proprietor and TV chef Dave Mooney: “I am delighted to be opening in such a superbly located venue and will offer an affordable menu which will appeal to both visitors and locals.

“I am passionate about using local ingredients and will focus on Cheshire’s wonderful seasonal produce and talented local food producers.”

Business partners include Mike Edwards, owner of the award-winning Chester Heritage Tours, and Peter Rosenfeld from award-winning Busybus, which will also offer attractions and events tickets.