The Mayor of Bridgwater, Cllr Leigh Redman has officially opened the new Community Connect Cafe in the Angel Place Shopping Centre.
Established in 2025, Sedgemoor Community Connector was created by local people with experience in community development, mental health services, food education and waste reduction. Before securing a permanent base, the organisation delivered community drop-in sessions and peer support groups across Bridgwater, working alongside local partners to provide hundreds of hot meals and winter support packages for local residents.
During the visit, the Mayor met with the directors of Sedgemoor Community Connector, toured the new space and cut the ribbon to launch the venue.
Operating on an accessible “pay as you can” model, the Community Connect Café offers affordable food and drink alongside a preloved items area, free internet access and dedicated spaces for advice sessions and peer support groups. The café has been designed as a welcoming community hub where people can meet others, access support services, seek advice or simply enjoy a hot drink in a safe and inclusive environment.
The Angel Place hub was originally planned as a longer-term project but was brought forward thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, community fundraising efforts and support from local businesses. The venue now provides a permanent base from which Sedgemoor Community Connector can continue to expand its services and provide support at the heart of the community.
Speaking at the opening, the Mayor of Bridgwater said,
“It is an absolute privilege to cut the ribbon and officially open the Community Connect Cafe in Angel Place. The directors and volunteers behind Sedgemoor Community Connector have worked tirelessly to turn this empty unit into a vibrant, supportive space for our town.
“Bridgwater thrives when we look out for one another, and this hub gives our community a central place to connect, find support, or simply share a warm cup of tea.”