A local city walls cafe has launched an online petition after being faced with restrictions on its outdoor seating area.

Huxley's, based next to the Eastgate Clock, opened in 2022 - after reviving the abandoned building which had become a "hotspot for drug-related activities".

Today it is a well-known spot in the city, famous for its wide range of homemade baked goods and quality ice creams.

However, the independent cafe recently announced new restrictions being placed on a "vital" part of its operations.

It said: "Restrictions threaten to force the removal of our outdoor seating - a vital part of our operation that allows us to serve all our loyal customers - especially during the vibrant summer months when outdoor seating is cherished by locals and tourists alike."

Huxley's, based next to the Eastgate Clock, opened in 2022 (Nub News)

Citing the value in encouraging investment and the necessity of community hotspots, Huxley's maintained the importance of supporting the petition.

It added: "We believe that maintaining our outdoor operations is crucial not only for Huxley's, but for Chester's community, tourism and ongoing efforts to improve the city's liveliness and appeal."

Cheshire West and Chester Council has confirmed correspondence with the local eatery, stating the restrictions are to avoid causing "difficulties for visually impaired people, those with mobility issues and parents/carers with push chairs."

Sharing the online petition, Huxley's said: "Supporting Huxley's isn't just about supporting a cafe; it's about supporting the revitalization efforts of local entrepreneurs who are striving to turn underutilized spaces into vibrant community hotspots.

"Huxley's has become more than just a place to grab a coffee; it's a beacon of change and improvement for the area."

The cafe recently announced new restrictions being placed its outdoor seating (Nub News)

In response to the petition, a council spokesperson said: "Chester has supported alfresco areas for many years helping to attract visitors and benefit businesses.

"There are regulations in place to ensure alfresco areas are suitable, including an appropriate width of clear footway being always left clear past the area.

"Obstructions cause difficulties for visually impaired people, those with mobility issues and parents/carers with pushchairs.

"The City Walls attract many visitors and being narrow, they have to be kept free of obstructions.

"Rather than commence formal action in relation to this matter, officers of the council have written to the owner of Huxley's with options the council would consider acceptable.

"It is hoped this will lead to a constructive dialogue with the business."

You can find the petition here.