A FAMILY-RUN cake shop and cafe has permanently closed after years of trading in the heart of Durham City due to a "huge downturn" in footfall.
It's All About The Cake announced the closure of its venue in The Riverwalk as it was pictured earlier this week completely empty of stock and fixtures.
The firm, which has a shop in Peterlee and a bakery in Wingate, said its other venues were unaffected by the sudden closure.
Read more: What we know so far after man dies in fire at Ushaw Moor graveyard
In an emotional statement, the business's owners paid tribute to its customers as they waved goodbye after setting up shop in 2018.
'We have not taken this decision lightly'
It said: "It is with a very heavy heart we announce the closure of our Durham store with immediate effect.
"We have not taken this decision lightly but due to a huge downturn in footfall post covid our position within the City Centre has become untenable.
Read more: Take a look inside new Turtle Bay Caribbean restaurant in Durham Riverwalk
"We would like to thank all those who have supported us over the last four years since opening our doors in 2018, the customers who we have loved getting to know and most importantly the staff who have been so dedicated right up until the end."
The post then added: "All we can say is for now, goodbye Durham. We thank you. Lots of love, team It’s All About The Cake."
The shop was among the first tenants to sign up to The Riverwalk following its multi-million pound revamp and construction.
The closure comes as a number of restaurant venues have recently opened in the development including Turtle Bay, The Food Pit and the Durham Sausage Company.
On social media, many were sad to see the name disappear from the city as dozens left messages of support.
Following the announcement, Graham Soult, a retail consultant, who is also vice-chairman of the Durham Business Group, said there is still much to celebrate in the city as he hinted at the arrival of more independents.
Mr Soult said: "I have got two businesses that I am talking to at the moment who I have put in touch with landlords in Durham and these talks are promising."
Mr Soult said this was in addition to a wave of other ongoing discussions, which he has not been involved in, suggesting even more names are on their way.
He said: "Not every business can work in every location - but with Durham BID, Indie Durham City and the parish council, we are all working together to do what we can.
"This includes not only taking a look at existing businesses, but those who want to be a part of it, making sure there's lots of support to help them be successful."
He added: "I am trying to encourage more retailers to look at The Riverwalk and clearly the parish council are keen for it to remain a balance of retail and hospitality."
The Riverwalk was approached for comment.
--
Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can also follow our dedicated County Durham Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.
For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.
Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here