York cafe Busk saved from conversion into flat opens again

Locals feared they had lost Busk in Fishergate after it closed during the pandemic and then planning permission was given to convert the cafe, on the corner of Sandringham Street and Fishergate, into a two-bed apartment.

But the cafe, which was opened by Sophie Hammill in April 2018, has reopened this week under new owners Sam and Louise Gallagher.

The couple, who also run the popular Poppleton Social café and bar in Poppleton, say they are delighted to have been able to bring Busk back into use for the local community.

Homemade tray bakes at Busk

Sam told The Press: "Sophie did a smashing job with Busk and we wanted to keep the name because of its reputation and that people love it already.

"Sophie worked really hard to create a great coffee shop and we are chuffed that it is going to stay here!"

Sam said Busk would be selling coffee - from London company Square Mile roasters - and home-made cakes and from next week would have paninis available too.

The cafe, opposite St George's primary school, is open for take-away as well as sit-in and has 20 covers - including a larger area with tables, behind the shop front and facing onto Sandringham Street, which was once the York Beer and Wine shop.