Grand Central Toowoomba announces closure of Passiontree Velvet

Days after a popular coffee shop in Toowoomba announced their closure, it’s been announced that another eatery in the same shopping centre has also shut up shop.

Following news of Coffee Emporium’s departure from Grand Central, shopping centre management has also revealed another coffee and cake shop has shut its doors.

Passiontree Velvet has closed its doors, leaving a gap on level one of the shopping centre.

Grand Central couldn’t comment on why the eatery had closed, however Retail Manager Simon Mills confirmed the news this week.

“We continue to experience strong demand for retail space, and the centre remains committed to ensuring our retail offer evolves with the demands of the region,” he said.

“Out of respect to all our retailers, we do not discuss specific elements of leases.

“However, we can confirm that Passiontree Velvet has departed Grand Central after a period of ongoing communication.”

Mr Mills maintained the shopping centre would remain a hub for Toowoomba residents looking for shopping and entertainment.

“Grand Central continues to be a favourite gathering place for our community and is performing strongly, with good numbers coming through the doors each day,” he said.

“During April, our Dining Quarter live music program will also continue to draw in crowds seeking a family friendly dining experience. I’m pleased to also say that Event Cinemas have recently been able to reopen their doors after recovering from damage caused by recent weather events.”

Mr Mills also announced a new “centre offering” would be opening soon, accompanying other movements within Grand Central.

“Body Catalyst, will be opening their doors in the coming months, while Silvershop has recently relocated to Level Two in a new-look store just across from Donut King,” he said.

“In December, we welcomed fashion retailer DECJUBA to the centre, and their presence continues to add to our array of fashion options.”

The news comes as Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced on Tuesday that vaccine mandates at some venues would be ending on April 14, meaning unvaccinated residents would soon be allowed to attend bars, clubs, pubs, and restaurants in the city once again.