THE tender to run the kitchens at a popular cafe in Oswestry is set to be put out by the town council.

Work to improve the 15th century building that housed the former Exhibition Centre, in Church Street, will begin next month, while bidding for the right to run it will start around the same time.

Council officials are aiming for a 2021 reopening, with Simon Cranmer, operations manager at the council, stating that tens of thousands of pounds will be spent on improving what will now be called 'The Old School House'.

He said: "Oswestry Town Council will be committing more than £70,000 to repair and improve the historic 15th century Exhibition Centre located next to St Oswald’s Church.

"Once finished, the building will be renamed The Old School House, reflecting its origins and provide a café with a fully-refurbished kitchen which meets the standards of the 21st century.

"The council has chosen a specialist contractor to work on this listed building. Work will start in November and inevitably means the temporary closure of the building.

"When complete we will hopefully be free of current restrictions and with increased seating space following the relocation of the Tourist Information Centre to Castle View, it will be a great facility.

"Outside we are also creating nesting boxes for swifts, in collaboration with Shropshire Wildlife Trust."

Oswestry mayor, Councillor Duncan Kerr, added: "With more floorspace than before and one of the largest outdoor seating areas in town this unique historic building is well placed to continue its reputation as a busy, welcoming and unique café and we look forward to its reopening in the spring of 2021."

Oswestry Town Council is inviting tender for the operation of this café with details available from November 13 to December 11. Anyone interested can register their interest at enquiries@oswestry-tc.gov.uk