A welcoming space for the community with affordable prices, friendly faces and amazing coffee is on the menu at a new social enterprise venture in the Upper Springfield area of west Belfast.
Anam - Caifé na Carraige is a project by Glór na Móna which aims to create opportunities for employment and and training for people from the district, including post-16 school leavers and Irish language university graduates, as well as creating a social hub.
Glór na Móna director Feargal Mac Ionnrachtaigh said it would support the Irish language community’s revival efforts under the banner of ‘comradeship, coffee and conversation’.
“The ‘heritage café' concept is central to our long-term plans for Croí na Carraige as a multi-purpose community centre and Anam provides us with an opportunity to trail the café on a pilot scheme to develop the philosophy and self-help approach within the community,” he said.
“The site has been derelict for 17 years, thus becoming a site of anti-community behaviour that impacts on the quality of life for people in the area.
“Our proposal to redevelop and regenerate this site can have a positive impact for the Upper Springfield and Whiterock community. We can’t wait to get started.”
Café manager Léann Ní Chonluain said Anam will be a place where the local community and Irish speakers can come together in a social setting.
“It is also a heritage café and learning space which we hope will attract visitors who are keen to learn more about our area,” she said.
“We place an emphasis on sustainability and self-sufficiency and are determined to promote the area - we will do that through using local produce whenever possible.
“Through the creation of a welcoming and inspiring space, we hope to have a positive impact on the lives of young people in the area and we welcome all and any support on our journey to make a difference in the Upper Springfield area.”
