we are regular users of the West Reservoir Centre in Hackney for open water swimming. This center has been a beacon of physical and mental health support since its inception, it has help 1000;s of people to stay fit and healthy for many years, and an integral part of this is the family-run Reservoir Café. The café provides a place for us to socialize over freshly cooked food made by a family that genuinely cares for our local community.

However, new development plans proposed by Hackney and Better Leisure threaten to close down this beloved café. These plans aim to transform it into a generic, overpriced coffee shop, stripping away kitchen access and thereby eliminating its unique charm.

The Reservoir Café has been serving our community for 20 years. It's more than just a café; it's an institution that fosters community spirit and well-being among locals. According to data from The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), small businesses like these contribute significantly to local economies - they account for 99.3% of all private sector businesses in the UK.

Diversity and inclusion should be at heart of what both Better and hackney council represent. The delicious hot Portuguese food served by the Pita family is a fantastic example of the diversity that the area and its resident's and constituents highly value.

we DO NOT WANT another GENERIC café. Our COMMUNITY and it's DIVERSITY and INCLUSION must be VALUED and PROTECTED.

We cannot let corporate interests overshadow the needs and wants of our community members who rely on this café not just as customers but as part of their daily lives.

Let's stand together against these changes that threaten our beloved local business. We urge Hackney Council and Better Leisure to reconsider their decision, prioritizing people over profit margins.

Please sign this petition today - help us save the heart of our community, save the Reservoir Café!