The Hilly Fields Cafe, opening spring 2012

It's confirmed: Hilly Fields will get a brand new cafe, opening in spring 2012.

Following a tender process led by Lewisham Council, Pistachios in the Park were the operators selected and they will begin development work this autumn, with the aim of opening early next year.

The cafe will replace the toilet block at the top of the park, creating a new attraction and saving the Council the cost of maintaining public toilets.

Pistachios are seasoned operators of south east London park cafes, running places in Hither Green and Greenwich already.

We've no further details of the plans at this stage, but can confirm that it will be operated by locals Fred and Ruth.

The logic of the plan - cutting Council costs while providing a facility that many local people will value - is irresistible and will help to encourage more people to think local when planning a day out.