One of Bedford’s most popular independent businesses, Bridges Espresso Bar, has closed with immediate effect, after struggling to survive the combined impact of the pandemic, economic pressures, and what it claims is a lack of support from Bedford Borough Council.
In an emotional social media post shared last night (Thursday), the team behind Bridges said: “All good things must come to an end, and it is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Bridges Espresso Bar has closed its doors as of today.”
The café, which opened in one of the more prominent spaces of Riverside North just before the first lockdown in 2020, quickly became a favourite for customers seeking quality coffee, a warm welcome, and a strong sense of community.
However, despite what many saw as a busy and successful business, owner Beckie Fry said the costs of survival proved too high.
Speaking to the Bedford Independent this morning, Beckie said: “We’ve faced multiple ways of trading through the pandemic, economic challenges and rapid inflation.
“This has meant we accrued some debt, including rent arrears to the council, and we constantly found ourselves struggling to make headway.”
She added that the business had sought professional advice and made repeated efforts to have their rent reviewed by Bedford Borough Council, which was agreed upon before the pandemic.
27 jobs
“Our lease and the rent payments were agreed upon before the pandemic, and we are paying above the current market value. Benchmarks of similar properties supported our case,” she said. “Sadly, those calls for dialogue were met with silence.”
“Over the past month, we made repeated efforts to engage with local councillors, MPs, the Mayor and our contacts within the council, hoping to initiate a conversation that might help make Bridges viable and save 27 jobs.
“We were told, by email, categorically, that no negotiation around rent would be considered.”
The closure announcement has triggered an outpouring of support from customers, local businesses, and the wider community. The Bridges team described this response as “deeply moving” and urged people to continue supporting Bedford’s independent companies.
In their closing statement to the Bedford Independent, they said: “Though it’s too late for Bridges, we hope this moment shines a light on just how tough it is for local independents right now.
“If there’s one thing we can ask, it’s this: Please continue to support the incredible independent businesses that bring so much character, passion and heart to our town. They need you now more than ever.”
Council response
Bedford Borough Council was unable to arrange an interview with anyone regarding the closure of Bridges and the owner’s claims. But a spokesperson said: “We are sorry to hear of the decision by Bridges Espresso Bar to close.
“The Council has been liaising with the owners to try to find a resolution. We continue to work both with existing businesses and to attract new businesses to the Borough.”
