Businesses in Rothbury have raised concerns following an application submitted by The Wildlife Trusts to operate a mobile coffee van in the Lordenshaws Car Park, a site frequented by walkers. The Trusts, engaged in a fundraising campaign to complete the purchase of the Rothbury Estates with Northumberland Wildlife Trust, propose the van’s operation as a three-month weekend trial.

The planning application states the van would serve visitors to the area and passing members of the public. The Wildlife Trusts confirmed the proposal followed an approach from a “young, local entrepreneur” wishing to run the coffee van, although the individual’s identity has not been disclosed.

Local businesses expressed apprehension that the initiative could undermine existing village enterprises. Kevin Mulraney, owner of Bewick’s Kitchen and Coffee House in Rothbury, argued that walkers typically visit the village to purchase refreshments after outdoor activities. He noted, “If you’re going up Simonside and you can get your sandwich and a cup of tea” nearby, visitors may bypass the village altogether. Mulraney added that the arrangement seemed contradictory to the Trusts' stated commitment to supporting local businesses, describing the coffee van as an unwelcome source of competition.

Graham Wade, owner of Rothbury Bakery, also voiced concern that the coffee van might divert customers away from local shops, bakeries, and cafes. He acknowledged the van could serve as an attraction but warned it might pose a significant challenge to village retailers.

Councillor Steven Bridgett, representing Rothbury ward, reiterated his longstanding opposition to mobile food and beverage providers operating from the Cow Haugh car park on the nearby River Coquet—except for a long-established ice cream van. He explained that such facilities tend to pull trade away from the village centre and disadvantage brick-and-mortar businesses. Councillor Bridgett also noted that mobile units do not contribute business rates in the same way as permanent premises, which he said makes the proposal inconsistent with the Wildlife Trusts’ public assurances to bolster the local economy.

He further indicated that despite the application being submitted on June 18, the coffee van plan was not mentioned at a public meeting held on July 13 to update the community on the estate’s progress.

Responding to the concerns, Peter Batchelor, managing director for the Wildlife Trusts at Rothbury, stated the Trusts were keen to explore job creation opportunities within the local community. He said the three-month trial is intended to evaluate the commercial viability for the vendor and assess any potential impact on Rothbury businesses. Batchelor emphasized the Trusts’ commitment to working with local residents and businesses and welcomed feedback during the consultation process. He added that any final decision would be subject to proper planning procedures and community input. The Trusts also expressed their broader aim to support local businesses alongside efforts to enhance wildlife conservation and access to nature in the Rothbury area.