The Stirchley community bakery Loaf, which has been a cornerstone of the Pershore Road neighbourhood for 14 years, is now fighting for survival after a development deal collapsed. The bakery temporarily closed in February, anticipating a move into the new Stirchley Cooperative Development building. However, builder GreenSquareAccord withdrew from a 'turnkey' agreement, citing a £1.16 million construction shortfall.
Rising Costs and Uncertain Future
GreenSquareAccord later offered to sell the development to the cooperative but increased the asking price due to 'interest costs, inflationary pressures and challenges during construction,' pricing the bakery out. Baker Neil Holland told BirminghamLive that all nine team members are working reduced hours to stay afloat. 'The completion date on the building keeps moving so we're only able to plan on a fortnightly basis,' he said.
Community and Council Support
The local community has rallied to support Loaf, with businesses like Anosh Coffee and Steamhouse Bakery offering temporary space. Birmingham City Council is providing financial support to help resolve the dispute. Holland described the uncertainty as devastating: 'We got through Covid, just about. And now it feels like one of those things all over again - our world is upside down.'
Crowdfunding Campaign
Loaf has launched a crowdfunding campaign to help make ends meet while fighting for survival. The bakery's plight highlights the challenges facing small businesses amid rising construction costs and development delays.
