Willmore’s 1938, the independent café set to return to Penarth town centre in the former HSBC bank building, is now expected to open in early 2027.
The delay follows planning complications and revised proposals that have set the project back by several months.
Matt Holland, owner of Willmore’s, confirmed that progress on the new café-deli-bar has been slower than hoped due to planning requirements.
Mr Holland said: ” Yes, our application was withdrawn, but only because we have resubmitted our proposals, the original planning application was withdrawn and resubmitted as a Section 73 application to avoid delays linked to a proposed Section 106 agreement that could have pushed final approval back to next January.”
The venue, planned for the old HSBC building on Stanwell Road, aims to blend New York-style deli culture with Penarth’s community spirit.
Plans include a café-bar-deli offering large sandwiches, freshly sliced meats, vegan dishes, a fish counter, coffee, and wine, all under one roof.
A unique feature will be a wine vault in the former bank’s secure cellar, designed for cheese-and-wine evenings and intimate acoustic music nights.
The space is also set to host pop-up events with local food producers and offer private hire for community functions.
The move marks a long-awaited return to the high street for the Holland family, who lost their previous town centre premises in 2021.
Since then, Willmore’s 1938 has operated from alternative sites, including its current clifftop location.
The business has faced a challenging journey since leaving its former venue, including a burglary in 2024 that caused £500 in damage and led to the loss of stock.
Earlier this year, Willmore’s also announced the sale of its mobile catering van, affectionately known as George.
The decision was made as the team prepares to focus fully on the new Penarth venue.
Mr Holland said in a social media post: “So we have made the decision to sell our beloved George the van.
“He’s really just sitting not being used, and with the new shop opening, we won’t have time to cover events.
“We love George and will miss him terribly, but the time has come to say goodbye and pass him on.”
Willmore’s has built a loyal following thanks to its hearty breakfasts, homemade cakes, and welcoming atmosphere.
Its current clifftop café remains popular, especially on sunny days when customers can enjoy coffee and cake with a sea view.
The menu caters to a variety of dietary needs, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Much of the food is made in-house, supporting the company’s reputation for freshness and quality.
Willmore’s has also demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
During the Covid-19 lockdown, the business pivoted to takeaway service and later expanded into event catering.
Despite these efforts, the café has been hit hard by changes in parking regulations.
Mr Holland previously reported a 30 per cent drop in footfall following the introduction of on-street parking charges by the Vale of Glamorgan Council, which were later suspended and are due to be reviewed.
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Willmore’s 1938 in Penarth on clifftop is selling its van | Penarth Times
Willmore’s return to Penarth town centre has been widely supported by the community, despite concerns about parking and access.
The new venue hopes to capture the same community spirit that has made the brand a staple of Penarth’s hospitality scene.
