An appeal for £2.6 million has been launched to redevelop a much-loved cafe in Graves Park, following its sudden closure in 2022.

The Rose Garden Cafe, which reopened following an independent structural assessment in August 2024, was initially deemed unsafe by Sheffield City Council due to concerns over the integrity of the roof.

The redevelopment, which is being led by the Rose Garden Cafe Partnership, would reduce maintenance costs in the long-run and avoid further closures.

If successful, a significant portion of the funding will come from the partnership’s bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Independent chair of the partnership, Chris Hallam, said: “I am confident that we have a very well thought through bid.

“But we’re not just assuming that’s the only thing we can go for, we’re looking at other funders too.”

Community fundraising projects have included a craft stall and Carols in the Cafe, which have helped to raise nearly £2,000 for the cause, with upcoming events of face painting and an Easter fundraiser to continue efforts.

Since re-opening, the current cafe operator, Dukes, has donated 10p from every coffee sale made at the venue, with 18.540 hot drinks contributing an additional £1,854 to the fundraising total.

Councillor Richard Williams, Chair of the Charity Trustee Sub-Committee involved in the project for Sheffield City Council, said: “I really hope that they are successful in their funding. The committees are fully supportive of what they’re doing.

“I think it has been a tremendous example of various parties coming together to make a difference.”

A city-wide public consultation in 2024 largely shaped the redevelopment plans which the partnership is working to fulfil.