Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporter.
The café at Dorchester Corn Exchange has closed after running up losses.
Dorchester Arts, which manages the building, said the bar will remain open for performances and the café-bar’s exhibition space will stay open.
Dorchester Arts Director Mark Tattersall said: “Having assessed the financial performance of the cafe operation since opening, and taking account of the risk of further financial losses, the Board of Dorchester Arts took the decision to close the cafe.”
Dorchester Arts Director Mark Tattersall said: “At this stage there are no plans to reopen it, but the front of the building remains open as an art gallery and the bar will continue to operate for all performances and events at the venue.”
The £750,000 refurbishment added the bar to the front of the building and included new toilets.
The plans aimed to draw more people to the area overlooking High East Street and the northern end of South Street.
The space was created by opening up the former Magistrates’ Room, which was rarely used except for small functions and as an event cloakroom.
Dorchester Arts runs the building on behalf of the town council and has offices within the complex.
Dorchester Town Council, which owns the building, confirmed that the change means Dorchester Arts continue to operate within the terms of their lease.
The café-bar is closed except during performances at the building.
The £750,000 refurbishment formed part of around £3 million spent securing and improving the building since 2023/24.
